Working on a freelance, temporary or agency basis can have a lot going for it, however there are downsides too; one being the sometimes unreliable nature of such work. Here are three tips to help you with this, in order to be an effective freelancer, temporary or agency worker:
1. Hedge Your Bets
If you are planning to do freelance, temporary or agency work and already have a current job, it is worth seeing if you can do some of this work outside of your job to start with unless you know that there is enough work for you. That way you minimize the financial risk and get to try out the work to make sure it is really something you want to do. It can be a fine balance transitioning into freelance, temporary or agency work whilst you have another job. It is easier if your current job has some flexibility so you can gradually reduce your hours as your freelance, temporary or agency work picks up. Freelance, temporary or agency work can be a great way to work, but if you have the opportunity to dip your toe in, it will give you a good insight into the day to day reality.
2. Be Proactive
Working on a freelance, temporary or agency basis will require you to be proactive. If you aren’t getting enough work, you will need to be prepared to do what you can to drum up the work but what you will need to do will depend on which type of worker you are. Freelance workers often get work by networking, word of mouth, recommendations and advertising or finding jobs. Temporary workers will usually need to negotiate work through a company or agency initially and agency workers will usually find work through an employment agency. Don’t be too loyal unless it’s in your contract and it is wise not to rely too much on one avenue of work. A big part of your time is likely going to be spent putting out expressions of interest on a regular basis. If you are getting work through an agency, remember that you employ the agency as uch as they employ you; make sure they do the leg work for you too.
If you manage your money well, it is easier to succeed as a freelance, temporary or agency worker. You will need to get used to an inconsistent and fluctuating income. It is great to have a good month income wise, but you need to always be preparing for those downtimes too; the months where you don’t earn as much or where your client has been late in paying you. Being financially conservative will give you more options.
Bio: Jen Smith is a Life Coach, Mentor & Writer. She has tried many career paths herself and now helps others to achieve their goals and dreams.
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