Re: 10 Myths About Freelancing

Got this in my Tech Republic newsletter this morning and I'm SO happy somebody finally came out and gave the facts because it's what I've been trying to tell people here. I've just posted the first three points; for the rest visit their website. This is a great site for computer techies or anybody who needs help or information on all things related to computer stuff: Tech Republic

10 Things You Shouldn't Believe About Freelancing
By Susan Harkins
August 19, 2011, 6:53 AM PDT

Takeaway: If you’re thinking about going freelance, be forewarned: Much of what you hear — about the freedom, the money, the work itself — is just plain wrong.

Freelancing seems to be a goal for many IT professionals (or anybody), but it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Many of the perks people believe freelancers enjoy simply don’t live up to their billing. While the following anecdotal musings might give the impression that I’m disillusioned with freelancing, I’m not. On the contrary, many days I feel like I’ve cashed in a winning lottery ticket (not one of the really big ones, but a winner just the same). If freelancing is your goal, do it for the right reasons — your reasons — not because of the myths you hear.

1: Freelancers make the big bucks

If you think freelancing is your road to riches, buy a new map. Freelancing can be lucrative if you’re in the right place at the right time. Most freelancers struggle to keep the lights on the same as everyone else. I don’t know any freelancers who claim to be much better off than when they were traditionally employed. During a dry spell, after the savings cushion is depleted, freelancing can be downright scary.

2: Freelancers can specialize

The military specializes; IT freelancers do it all. It’s possible to carve out a small niche for yourself. I like helping people use their software efficiently, but that alone doesn’t pay my bills. Some of the projects I work on put me to sleep, which reduces my dollar-per-hour rate, as afternoon nap isn’t on my fee schedule! The industry changes so fast that the only thing most freelancers specialize in is retraining to keep up.

3: Freelancers are their own bosses

I treat each of my clients as if he or she is my only boss. I cultivate that relationship on purpose. The downside is that I have several bosses. Clients mediate with me more than a traditional boss might, but ultimately, they get what they want. I can decide not to accept a project — that’s the extent of my bossiness. I’m fond of saying that I’m boss of that cushy and enviable spot right between a rock and a hard place.

View the original article here