Should Freelancers be Renaissance Men?
I’m beginning to rethink my insistence on concentrating on one craft. That’s because in today’s freelancing environment, clients like hiring multi-talented contract workers. And sometimes, for one man to effectively carry out a project, he has to be versed in two or more skills that complement each other. Examples include blog designers, who must know CSS and PHP, among other things. And a graphic designer will have an easier time creating compositions if his photography skills produce effective imagery.
I believe it’s easier to achieve mastery when focusing on as little skills as possible. There are less avenues to divide your attention. But sometimes, the easy way isn’t the best way. What I’ve been noticing lately indicates that maybe to advance your career as a freelancer, you’ll have to offer clients a comprehensive skill set. You may have to be a Renaissance Man.
This term is of course inspired by the Renaissance, a period of history where it became fashionable to learn as much as you can (at least according to the stereotype). That’s why prominent figures from the time, like Leonardo da Vinci and Michaelangelo were educated and proficient in many fields.
It’s possible that being multi-talented is becoming a requirement for freelancing. That’s because clients want the best value for money, and projects involving one worker are usually easier to manage. Imagine having to hire a photographer, copywriter, and layout artist. Isn’t it more worthwhile to hire a designer who is capable of all three skills?
So clients are likely to accept the proposal of a multi-talented freelancer. These kind of contract workers can also command premium prices, particularly if their output is consistently extraordinary. But the problem remains: if you decide to add to your skill set, how do you make sure each skill enjoys the time and focus it deserves? How do you make sure you’ll improve on all fronts?
Renaissance men did excel at many disciplines. Probably because they decided to concentrate on complementary skills. Skills that aren’t on the opposite ends of the spectrum, but right next to each other. It’s easier to focus your energies this way, because complementary skills share some common expertise. Web design and programming both rely on HTML proficiency for example.
What do you think, dear readers? Is focusing on one skill akin to being a one-trick pony, or does being a jack of all trades help a freelance career?
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POSTED IN: Ramblings of a Freelancer
2 opinions for Should Freelancers be Renaissance Men?
Matt Keegan
Aug 29, 2007 at 1:21 pm
I believe that having multiple skills can only be advantageous. I write web content, produce articles, write and distribute press releases, develop web sites, and provide public relations services. When one are is slow, I concentrate on the other, always looking at ways to hone my skills.
I’m not rich, but I do make a living by offering a wide variety of skills to willing customers.
L.A. Swift
Sep 2, 2007 at 5:00 pm
It does not always help to be multi-talented. At least that the case for a artist like me in the Netherlands. Becase a lot of company split up there Internet company in 2 divions web design and web development. they often ask me do you like to design or do you like to build websites in html and css. We i say that i can do and like doing both. They think i will get bored if i only do html and css.
then i have too make it clear to them that what you create does not explain or identify the nature or essential qualities of your skills.
In order to make a good website you need too understand the effect of color on a pc screen and the limitations of color and interaction in html, css, javascript, php, flash.
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