The rise of the gig economy has led to an increase in freelance work in the tech industry. Freelancers offer businesses access to specialized skills, increased flexibility, and cost savings. However, despite the benefits, there are still common myths and misconceptions about freelance work that persist among tech professionals and hiring managers, which can prevent businesses from taking advantage of the opportunities offered by freelance work, and can also prevent freelancers from finding work.
To help both businesses and freelancers navigate this changing landscape, Glocomms debunks seven of the biggest myths and explains the realities of working in the freelance tech industry.
Myth #1: Freelancers are not as qualified as full-time employees.
This is a common misconception that persists among some businesses and hiring managers. However, the reality is that many freelancers have more experience and expertise than full-time employees, especially in niche areas. Freelancers often have the flexibility to specialize in certain areas and build up a diverse portfolio of work. Additionally, many freelancers have years of experience working with multiple clients, which gives them exposure to different industries and challenges. As a result, freelancers often have a unique perspective and skillset that can benefit businesses. It's important for businesses to recognize the value that freelancers can bring and to consider them as a viable option for their projects.
Myth #2: Freelancers are unreliable.
The reality is that freelance workers can often be more reliable than full-time employees. This is because they understand that their reputation is everything, and they are highly motivated to deliver quality work on time. Freelance workers typically work with a diverse range of clients, and they must be able to manage their time effectively to ensure that they meet their deadlines. This often means that they have strict deadlines and communication protocols in place to ensure that they meet their clients' expectations. Additionally, freelance workers are ofte highly adaptable and flexible, which can make them more reliable in dynamic or fast-paced work environments.
Myth #3: Freelancers are expensive.
This myth is based on the idea that because freelancers are specialized and highly skilled, they charge high rates for their work. While it's true that some freelancers may charge higher rates than full-time employees, it's important to consider the overall cost-benefit analysis of working with a freelancer, especially with the help of a global talent specialist.
Working with a talent specialist at Glocomms can help businesses save on the cost of finding and hiring freelancers. We're able to leverage our network and expertise to find freelancers who match businesses' needs and budgets. Additionally, we're able to negotiate rates with freelancers, ensuring that businesses get the best value for their investment.
It's important to note that the cost of hiring a freelancer can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the level of expertise required, the length of the project, and the complexity of the work.
Myth #4: Freelancers are not committed to the company's goals.
It's commonly assumed that because freelancers work on a project basis and are not full-time employees, they may not be as invested in the company's goals and objectives. However, many freelancers take a collaborative approach to projects, working closely with clients to ensure that they understand the company's goals and objectives and can align their work with those goals.
Furthermore, many freelancers understand that their reputation is on the line with every project they take on, and they are highly motivated to deliver quality work that reflects positively on their clients. They take pride in delivering work that meets or exceeds their clients' expectations, and understand that their work is a reflection of their skills and abilities.
Businesses can ensure that freelancers are aligned with their goals by establishing clear communication channels and expectations from the start. This includes setting expectations for deliverables, timelines, communication, and other project details. By fostering open communication and a collaborative approach to projects, businesses can help freelancers understand their goals and objectives and how their work fits into the larger picture.
Myth #5: Freelancers are not interested in building long-term relationships.
Actually, many freelancers are interested in building long-term relationships with clients, and they often go above and beyond to ensure they deliver quality work and exceed expectations.
Freelancers understand that building long-term relationships with clients can lead to more work opportunities and can help them establish a strong reputation in their industry. As a result, many freelancers take a proactive approach to building relationships with clients, such as following up after projects are completed and offering additional support or services.
Additionally, freelancers often have a unique perspective and skill set that can benefit businesses over the long term. By building long-term relationships with freelancers, businesses can tap into this expertise and benefit from a deeper understanding of their industry and market.
Myth #6: Freelancers are not available for ongoing work.
It's commonly believed that freelancers may not be as accessible or available as full-time employees because they are not physically present in the office. However, with the advent of modern communication tools and remote work becoming more prevalent, freelancers are just as accessible as full-time employees.
Many freelancers use video conferencing, messaging platforms, and email to stay in touch with their clients and collaborate on projects. They often have flexible schedules, which can make them available during non-traditional working hours, such as evenings or weekends.
Businesses can ensure that they stay in touch with their freelancers by establishing clear communication channels and schedules from the outset. This includes setting expectations for communication methods, availability, and response times. By fostering open communication and regular check-ins, businesses can ensure that freelancers are accessible and available when they need them.
In summary, freelancers are just as accessible as full-time employees thanks to modern communication tools and flexible schedules.
Myth #7: Freelancers are not as accountable as full-time employees.
The reality is that many freelancers have detailed contracts and work agreements in place to ensure clear expectations and accountability. Additionally, freelancers understand the importance of meeting their clients' expectations, as their reputation and future job opportunities depend on it. As a result, freelancers often take a highly professional approach to their work, which can make them highly accountable.
Businesses can ensure that freelancers are accountable by establishing clear expectations and deliverables from the outset. This includes setting expectations for deadlines, deliverables, communication, and other project details. By fostering open communication and regular check-ins, businesses can ensure that freelancers are meeting their expectations and delivering quality work.
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Our Freelance Services
At Glocomms, we understand the challenges that businesses face in finding the right talent, especially for short-term projects. We offer a range of freelance staffing solutions to help businesses find the right talent for their projects, whether it's for a short-term project or a long-term assignment.
We work closely with our clients to understand their unique needs and requirements and then leverage our network and expertise to find the best talent for their projects. If you're looking for top tech talent, request a call back today from the contracts team. We can provide ongoing support to ensure that your project is a success.