Completing freelance work while managing a full time job can seem like a daunting task and may feel like a leap of faith. The questions can seep into the back of your mind about how you’ll find enough clients, what to charge, and how to manage time to provide quality work for employers and clients.
The good news is that it’s not only possible, but a proven way to supplement your income while enjoying the financial security of full time employment. You can reduce the risk of taking on a new challenge while gaining new skills in the process.
Read on to learn more about freelancing while working full time today.
Reduced risk
A massive advantage of doing freelance work while working full time is the reduced risk. You can test the waters and determine if you enjoy working freelance before making a full commitment. It’s an excellent way to determine if working or writing from home is suitable for your lifestyle.
Skill development
Starting freelance work is also a way to gain new and marketable skills outside of full time employment. You can explore new skills and ideas with little risk, which could lead you toward finding your true passion as a professional.
Financial security
The network and client base you build when freelancing can offer a safety net that others lack should your full time position fall through. You’ll have the pieces in place to keep money coming in, with the potential for further growth and development.
Improved time management
Deadlines are crucial when working as a freelancer. You’ll need to focus on time management to meet all obligations for freelance clients and employers while working full time. The experience with multi-tasking can open doors to new opportunities within both careers.
Consider the legality
Before starting freelance work, review legal considerations – such as your employment contract with your employer to avoid any potential conflicts of interest. You’ll have a clearer picture of what is and is not allowed. Depending on your employment contract, starting freelance work can result in contract termination.
Tips for balancing full time work and freelancing
Establish your boundaries
The first thing to do when you begin work as a freelancer is to set boundaries through clear and open communication. The boundaries will help you avoid getting overwhelmed or falling behind with your full time and freelance responsibilities.
Determine your priorities
Another tip to use when you start your freelance career is to determine your priorities. Knowing what tasks to prioritize can help you build strong client relationships that propel your freelance career forward and foster its growth. It’s also a step toward maintaining strong performance with the full time employer to reap the benefits of two income streams.
Practice clear communication
Clear communication can help you set expectations with clients when you start freelance work. It’s vital to be clear with clients about your availability to avoid taking on more than you can handle. You should also work to become comfortable with communicating time constraints and working with clients to manage deadlines.
Measure your progress
Keeping track of your progress as a freelancer can be an encouraging step toward success. It can help you follow a roadmap toward your goals while maintaining high spirits.
Set your goals and then monitor the progress toward them to stay on the proper path.
Be realistic
The most challenging part of freelancing while working full time is being realistic with yourself about what you can and cannot manage. It’s vital to maintain a work-life balance between freelance and full time work while still finding time for the things you enjoy. Be realistic about what you’re capable of taking on.
Seek support
Dipping your toes into the world of freelance work can be daunting, and having support is a must. Don’t be afraid to join forums dedicated to freelancers. The connections made with other freelance workers can lead to invaluable advice and guidance. These individuals can also provide positivity that lifts you if stress begins to overwhelm you.
Exploring a new career path via freelance work is an excellent way to gain new skills and discover new opportunities. Managing both is possible, but it requires setting boundaries, being realistic with yourself, and building a support system as you grow into being a freelancer.