The global economic downturn has led to several positive changes in the business world. Among these are an increased interest in freelance opportunities and the ability for many companies to take advantage of this new landscape by hiring freelancers who can provide them with the expertise they need without all the overhead costs associated with traditional employment.
The increased interest in freelancing has been driven by the fact that many companies are reluctant to hire full-time employees due to the current economic climate. Also, this is because they can now hire freelancers who will work on an as-needed basis without worrying about paying benefits or providing healthcare. While the lack of structure and security may concern some, the higher earning potential for freelancers is a huge draw.
Here are just some of the most common freelance jobs and how much they can pay.
Web Developers
Web developers often work with designers and programmers to build websites for clients. They can make around $50,000 per year but may be able to earn up to $75,000 if they are exceptionally talented or have experience building large-scale projects. However, many developers can also work independently and earn as much as $100,000 per year.
Many web developers choose to freelance because they can make much more money than they would if they worked for someone else. Web developers are usually responsible for their taxes and other expenses as freelancers. They may also have to pay for their equipment, such as a computer or phone, and any additional software needed for their work.
Writers
Freelance writers can make anywhere between $25 and $50 per article, depending on the publication for which they write. If you can land a book deal or an ongoing column with a major publication like The New York Times or The Huffington Post, that income can increase substantially.
But even if you don’t land a book deal, freelance writing can be an excellent way to supplement your income. Depending on the content you create, you can make anywhere between $15 and $30 per hour as an online writer or blogger.
Graphic Designers
Graphic designers can make good money if they have experience and a portfolio of work. If you’re just starting out, expect to earn less than $15 per hour as a graphic designer at an agency or company. But if you land a job with an established firm and can build up your skills, you could eventually earn up to $50 per hour for freelance work or full-time employment.
Freelance graphic designers usually charge by the project or hour, and rates vary depending on the type of work being done. Designers who have more experience in a specific field tend to command higher fees than those just starting out.
Traditional Professional Services
It comes as no surprise that many lawyers, accountants, engineers, and financial advisers have also chosen to go freelance. These professionals often work in a traditional office setting, but they may also have the option to work remotely if they choose. This flexibility allows them to earn more money, especially considering that travel time and expenses are no longer a factor.
Going freelance or establishing their own independent firms is an attractive option for many professionals because it allows them to work on projects that they find more fulfilling. One of the many advantages of freelancing is that they can only work with clients they enjoy, thus avoiding potential conflicts. Banks nowadays also offer small business loans and corporate savings accounts that provide tax breaks and investments for retirement planning to all freelancers and small businesses—and not just those employed by corporations or large companies.
Closing Statement
The market for freelance services and independent contractors is growing by leaps and bounds, making it an ideal opportunity for professionals who want to earn more money while enjoying the freedom of working on their own terms. Whether you’re a writer, designer, or programmer—or even just someone with a talent for managing social media accounts—there are many ways to make money by joining the freelance revolution.
The freelance job market also allows individuals to explore international opportunities with companies overseas that offer higher pay, work-life balance, and other perks. With the rise of the internet and globalization, there has never been a better time to be a freelancer.
No matter what your skills or experience level, there’s an opportunity for you to start earning money as a freelancer. Whether you want to quit your day job or just make some extra cash on the side, freelancing is an excellent opportunity to explore.
