If you are an elearner who will soon be graduating with a college degree or an employee who is thinking about transitioning to a freelance job, it could be a good idea to see what types of freelance careers are out there before diving into one. Making the decision to freelance typically involves details like learning how to negotiate pay rates, interacting with clients, having a support system in place, and remaining focused throughout the day. Of course, it is usually easier if you have built up your savings as well prior to taking the plunge.
What are some potential freelance careers you could have?
Photography. If you can’t leave you camera at home and are known as the one who is always snapping pictures, photography could be a great freelance option for you. While it helpful to have taken some photography coursework as well already owning the equipment—which can be pricey—becoming a freelance photographer may be a great way for you to start small and build up your business. Whether you are shooting weddings, portraits, or sporting events, you may be able to first market yourself in a particular area of expertise then expand later.
Accounting. Are you great at math and enjoy working with numbers? Then a freelance accounting career could be the right job for you. Many businesses—large or small—need someone to keep track of their bookkeeping and oversee the end of the year tax returns and audits. As a freelance accountant, you could be in charge of making sure that billing and bank statements align.
Writing. Writing is probably one of the careers that pop into your mind when you hear the word “freelance.” While freelance writing may have been around for a while, it is important to know the current trends as well as have excellent grammar. For example, a business may hire freelancers to write tech manuals, another company could need writers to pen custom greeting card sayings, and other organizations may be searching for copywriters to promote their services online.
Web developer. If you are great with technology and enjoy working with computers, becoming a web developer may be a good career fit. In addition to designing websites, you could create software programs or manage websites on servers. Clients may need your assistance when setting up a company website or for technical support on an already established site. Because you are a freelance web developer, you might be able to choose your clients and determine what your work schedule looks like for the week.
Event coordinator. Whether you are planning a Sweet Sixteen or a bar mitzvah party, event planning may be more than comforting mothers of brides. Corporations often need event coordinators to plan and carry out business functions and you could find yourself organizing a social media conference or a career fair.
Having a freelance career could be a way for you to have a more flexible schedule and be your own boss. However, since you are usually on your own with regards to work, it could be more challenging to buckle down and stay motivated. If you tend to be self-directed when it comes to work, you may have an easier time than someone who needs the day-to-day interaction of co-workers.
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Pamela Rossow is a freelance writer who works with higher education clients such as eLearners. She is a native South Floridian who enjoys photography, literature, and hockey. You can follow her on Google+.
