Freelancing and the new way of working

Freelancing and the new way of working

Walking into the office at 9 o'clock and closing the suitcase at 5 o'clock and leaving, that time is over. We will work smarter, more efficiently and more effectively. We hold conference calls, conduct job applications with internationals via Skype and send work emails on the train; This is the new way of working.

The new way of working

The new way of working no longer means being tied to time or place. This way you not only avoid the hassle of traffic jams or crowded trains, but you also work under conditions that are ideal for you. Simple example: where you prefer to have the radio at full volume, your colleague likes to work in dead silence. The new way of working is about working flexibly and efficiently, thinking in solutions and not in problems and making optimal use of the (technical) options you have.

Freelancers & the new way of working

A trend towards more flexible working is emerging not only in paid employment. Since 2011, the number of self-employed people registering with the Chamber of Commerce has been increasing. Working people in the Netherlands are increasingly opting for the flexibility of freelancing. Why?

- As a self-employed person you are not tied to an employer and he is not tied to you. This can be an advantage for both parties. You take on different assignments, the employer does not have to keep you after you have completed his assignment.

- As a freelancer, you determine your own rate and the number of assignments you accept. It is quite possible that you earn more as a self-employed person than when you are employed.

- Starting freelancing doesn't have to be a leap into the unknown. You can start alongside a part-time or full-time job and build up a customer base and references.

- Work where, when and for who you want. Freelancing is ultimate freedom.

Pitfalls

Is the new working and freelancing just freedom and happiness? Not always.

- 'We are looking for someone without a 9 to 5 mentality' is an indispensable part of any vacancy. It is typical of the new vision on work. The separation between private and work becomes blurred. It is important to find the balance between being flexible with hours and being available 24/7 for emails, telephone calls and assignments.

- If there is one barrier for starting freelancers, it is the administration that must be kept up to date. You can hire someone to do this, but you can find many tips for starters on the Tax Authorities' ZZP page. The Chamber of Commerce organizes various workshops to help new freelancers get started.

- A freelancer must be proactive. You are independent and cannot rely on others. Freelance journalists and copywriters don't give up after the first negative feedback on an idea. Try it somewhere else, think of something new. Persevere.

- Know what you're worth. With unreasonably low rates to obtain an assignment at any cost, you are shooting yourself in the fingers. Do your research and then determine your rate. Quality costs something.

ProLinker

ProLinker is in line with the new way of working. Assignments are presented in a clear manner, responding with a personal quote is effortless and fast. Freelancers and clients come together more efficiently and effectively. This is a solution, especially for starting freelancers. With just a few clicks they can start building a customer base and find their way to the new way of working.

By: Marlies Bax, Marlieses.com