Contract Worker - Freelancing Experiences

Grabbing the Dilemma by its Horns

by Rico on November 18th, 2006

I began writing for Contract Worker by asking “Should you be a freelancer?” To help you answer that question, I’ve written why you should be a freelancer, and why you shouldn’t be. It may seem that freelancing and earning “normally” are impossible, an irresolvable dilemma.

Last month, I started working for Microwarehouse Inc., a local distributor of “digital lifestyle and networking products.” Despite joining the corporate world, I chose to continue pursuing a freelance career, on the side of course.

Aside from discovering that working two jobs is possible, I also noticed some interesting things:

The jobs’ advantages complement each other. As a marketing specialist, I’ve made new acquaintances, gaining visibility for myself. And as a freelancer, visibility is important when trying to acquire new contracts.

The jobs minimize each other’s disadvantages. Thanks to my monthly salary, I have something to fall back on when the freelancing business is slow. And my sideline projects help me avoid getting bored with the sometimes monotonous company work.

Increased revenue. It doesn’t matter which job makes more money; you’re now earning from two jobs!

New advantages are created. Working directly under the company’s experienced head of marketing, I actually learn new things that I can use for freelancing. Examples include writing effective copy, following brand identity guidelines, and creating better visual impact. And I’m actually allowed to post what I make for the company on my online portfolio!

Unfortunately, new disadvantages are also created. You can only do so much within a day, especially since your body demands at least 6 hours of sleep, and a hectic day at work may make you too tired to finish those freelance projects. But, as a recent graduate, I want to squeeze every last ounce of productivity out of my young body, before it gets too old. I think maintaining a day job and a freelance career at the same time is a good way to do that.

Thus I end Contract Worker’s first series by emphasizing that you now have three options: Exclusively corporate or freelance, or both. In the end, it’s all up to you, so choose wisely!

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POSTED IN: On Freelancing