Now, more than ever, people have the freedom and flexibility to work wherever and whenever they want. I’m in Mexico City sitting in one of WeWork’s global coworking spaces, surrounded by designers and start-up gurus, sipping out of a “Do what you love” mug from the free coffee bar. This shift in work culture is not just a fleeting trend; it represents a fundamental change in how we view and approach work.
Currently, in the US alone, there are 30 million independent workers. By 2019, an additional 10 million will join the ranks of freelancers. This surge is not limited to the tech and creative sectors; the corporate world is embracing this movement as well. In fact, 96% of the CFOs interviewed in Forbes’ Workforce Productivity Report indicated that their companies utilize independent contractors.
If you’re talented, they will come.
Even large enterprises, like Procter & Gamble and General Electric, are adopting new technologies to support hiring talented freelancers. Progressive companies are developing entire management systems dedicated to handling freelance and vendor work. There has also been a significant rise in platforms designed to pair talent with those looking to hire, such as Contently and Catalant. These platforms make it easier for freelancers to find work and for companies to find the right talent.
Freelance is the future.
According to Forbes and multiple Fortune 500 executives, the pieces are in place for the freelance workforce to explode. While some corporations may just be getting a taste of working with the freelance community, it’s going to become more mainstream. Independent positions are held by the best and the brightest. So much so, that Harvard Business Review refers to these individuals as “supertemps.” Lawyers, CFOs, and consultants are choosing project-based careers, changing how business works.
And why not? Independent workers can skip out on the email chains, drawn-out meetings, and office politics, focusing instead on delivering results. As more skilled workers go freelance, more companies will follow suit. Smart companies will follow the talent. If the best and brightest want to work on a temporary basis, organizations will find a way to accommodate their workflow.
Working remotely
One of the leading trends in freelancing is coworking offices. Take WeWork, for example. You can rent daily desks, dedicated desks, and even permanent office spaces if you don’t want to pack and unpack your cactus and E.T. figurine every day. These spaces offer everything you need: phone booths, conference rooms, free beer, free coffee, a ping pong table, and several networking events weekly.
But people aren’t going freelance to relax and work just enough to cover their rent and an obsession with take-out. Freelancers tend to be incredibly driven and hard-working. They’re independent, strategic, professional, and calculated in the best way. They’re changing everything.
The Appeal of Freelancing
Freelancing offers a level of autonomy that traditional jobs often lack. Freelancers can choose the projects that interest them, set their own schedules, and work from anywhere in the world. This freedom is particularly appealing to millennials and Gen Z workers, who prioritize work-life balance and flexibility over job security and traditional benefits.
Moreover, freelancing allows individuals to diversify their skill sets and experience different industries. This variety can lead to more fulfilling and dynamic career paths. Freelancers are not confined to a single employer or industry; they can explore multiple opportunities and continuously challenge themselves.
Technology and the Freelance Boom
The rise of digital platforms and remote work technologies has been a game-changer for freelancers. Tools like Slack, Zoom, and Asana enable seamless communication and collaboration, regardless of location. Cloud-based solutions allow freelancers to access files and resources from anywhere, making it easier to manage projects and meet deadlines.
Additionally, online marketplaces like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal provide freelancers with access to a global client base. These platforms offer a steady stream of job opportunities and enable freelancers to build their reputations and grow their businesses. The gig economy is thriving, and technology is at the heart of this transformation.
Challenges and Considerations
While freelancing offers many benefits, it’s not without its challenges. Freelancers must manage their own finances, including taxes, insurance, and retirement savings. They also need to continuously market themselves and find new clients, which can be time-consuming and stressful.
Furthermore, freelancers often work alone, which can lead to feelings of isolation. Coworking spaces like WeWork help mitigate this by providing a sense of community and opportunities for networking. However, it’s important for freelancers to proactively seek out social interactions and support networks to maintain their mental well-being.
The Future of Work
As the freelance workforce continues to grow, companies will need to adapt to new ways of working. This shift will require changes in management practices, communication strategies, and organizational structures. Companies that embrace flexibility and prioritize results over rigid schedules will be better positioned to attract and retain top talent.
For freelancers, the future looks bright. With the right skills and a proactive approach to managing their careers, they can enjoy the freedom and satisfaction that comes with independent work. As the world of work continues to evolve, the line between traditional employment and freelancing will blur, creating a more dynamic and flexible labor market.
Final thoughts
The rise of freelancing represents a significant shift in the way we work. With the freedom to choose projects, set schedules, and work from anywhere, freelancers are redefining the modern workforce. As technology continues to advance and more companies embrace this trend, the freelance economy will continue to grow. For those willing to take the plunge, freelancing offers unparalleled opportunities for autonomy, growth, and fulfillment.