Are You Fit for Freelance?
In between jobs freelance work is perfect for some
If you've joined the mass of workers on the hunt for new jobs, freelance has most likely crossed your mind as an option. Yes, the life as a free agent has its advantages, especially in a tight economy. But before you sign up, Greg Trevizo, Director Marketing & Creative Services at 24 Seven's San Francisco office, says taking a personal inventory can help you decide if it's the right move for you.
Things to consider:
You may be a star performer, but are today's job trends moving in your favor? Take some time to browse a few job sites to see what's being posted or ask your recruiter for a reality check. You may need to shift gears slightly to fit the current demands. For example, if you're a designer and positions in your market are slim, you can highlight your technical skills to fill another part of the job chain.
"Clients are really particular these days because they're hiring in an environment flooded with highly qualified applicants," says Trevizo "Even experienced candidates need to grease the wheels a little to get back on their game, and freelance is a great way to get there."
Trevizo says 24 Seven takes a full-service approach to the job hunt, offering candidates access to free workshops, discounted software training and other services, news updates and invitations to industry networking and social events.
"Many people realize they need more than a resume update," says Trevizo. "With technology moving so quickly, people who keep working are the ones who are adapting with the same momentum."
Whether you're looking for a full-time job or contract work, it pays to look around before making a decision.
Temp-to-perm or temp-to-hire jobs are popular with companies looking for new talent during an economy crunch. These contracts give you a chance to make sure the job matches your skills and the company culture fits your personality. Then, you can consider making the full-time move.
If a full time job is your goal, freelance can supplement income and relieve the pressure to make a quick decision while you're searching.
One thing is for certain in this economy: nearly every employer has more applications than jobs, so you're likely to have some wait time between jobs. People who do well in the freelance world have about one to two months of pay tucked away to make up for any gaps in new projects.
If you're already working, you might decide to take on an occasional freelance gig for extra cash or experience on the side. In either case, having a back-up plan is a good idea.
The more you can flex your creative muscle with a variety of assignments, the easier time you'll have getting steady job placements. Show your versatility, but be sure to prioritize your portfolio samples to match the style of each company on your interview rounds.
Job seekers need to consider the flexibility factor. Employers are increasingly in need of creative talent that can shift as quickly as the business environment. Consider questions like: Will you relocate? Will you take less money? Will you do more than you originally signed up for? Can you hit the ground running in a new environment? Handle changing assignments every few months?
"The less rigid you are in your requirements, the better your chances of getting that next job," says Deborah Cristal, Director of Operations Marketing & Creative Services at 24 Seven's Los Angeles office."
About timing: creative talent assignments average two to three months, depending on the client, but may last longer. Let your recruiter know if you have minimum and maximum amount of time per project in mind.
Employers aren't too big on personal calls or Facebook time in the office, so freelancers are wise to stay the course. Companies are running lean and demand higher quality work delivered in a shorter timeframe. Candidates who work regularly are well aware that new projects depend on constantly delivering good work, often under tight deadlines.
For some, freelance work is a great alternative to full-time gigs during tough economic times. It allows you to collect a paycheck, keep your skills fresh and network. If it fits your work style and you've got what it takes, there's a freelance project waiting for you. Brace yourself, however, for tough competition.
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