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5 Tips for Thriving in the Gig Economy

Written by Contributor, on 27th Mar 2020. Posted in General

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Have you ever thought about working from home? Who doesn’t like the idea of being able to set their own work hours? If you have considered it, then you’re not alone. More and more people are turning to freelance or short-term contract work to make their living. The gig economy – as it’s known – now makes up more than 1/3 of the workforce. If you want to know how to survive as a freelancer and how to thrive in this environment, then keep reading below for some of our top tips to get you started:

1.Use an Online Marketplace

When you first start working as a freelancer, you might find it hard to find jobs in your specific field. Rather than let this put you off, try expanding your search to see if there are any other freelance roles that you’re qualified for.

You can use an online marketplace to see what people are looking for and also sell your work. These marketplaces will also give you an idea of how much you should charge for your services. You may find that some of the skills you already have allow you to apply for gigs you didn’t even know were an option.

2.Hone Your Brand

To stand out in the gig economy you need to create a solid brand. Try and post regular updates on social media that show others your successes and personal strengths. You should also show potential clients why they should use you over other businesses, e.g. do you use better quality materials?

All freelancers need a portfolio of their work online that can be accessed easily by potential clients. Your portfolio should include examples of your work and showcase your versatility and skills. Updating your portfolio with new photos will show customers that you’re in high demand.

3.Time-Management

One of the main benefits of working in the gig economy is that you don’t have to attend an office every day. However, this can also be a disadvantage – particularly if you’re not good at organizing your time. As the gig economy becomes more important people are having to learn how to manage their time in order to get everything done and be successful in their chosen roles. Using a calendar app or task manager app can help you organize your work and schedule work calls and meetings.  

Having a solid routine in place is another great way to improve your time-management skills. Routines help make us feel more in control, help us focus on the tasks we have set and make sure we maintain a healthy balance between work and home life.

4.Set Up a Distraction-Free Work Area

Studies have shown that freelancers are more productive if they’re working in a distraction-free work environment. Try and find a quiet place to work. Not only should your work environment be distraction-free, but it should also be comfortable. Sitting in an uncomfortable chair for 8 hours a day will only make you feel miserable. Make small changes to your environment to make it suit your needs.

5.Go Above and Beyond

You should try and go the extra mile for your customers. Before starting a new gig, find out information about the industry and your new employer. This will give you a better understanding of their needs. You should also try and be flexible when it comes to teleconferences or meetings and always plan to submit your work ahead of schedule.

Millions of people around the world dream of becoming their own boss. There are a number of perks to working for yourself, but it isn’t always easy. If you advertise your business correctly and try and go above and beyond for your customers, you’re likely to succeed. Why not give it a go?

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