One of the greatest things about freelancing is that it gets you in close, long-term contact with people who hire.
I’m always hearing stories from other freelancers about being offered full-time work or great positions they find out about because of their existing connections–Freelancing is networking (which is one of the big reasons I believe new graduates should give it a shot, even if they don’t have long-term aspirations.)
One of my blogging clients has been looking to bring someone on full-time to handle their online content. The offer was for what would be a pretty high position in a growing organization and it turns out my work with them has been a kind of long-term interview.
As much as I do sometimes miss the security of a settled position, I decided to turn it down.
I love my life as a freelancer. My health has improved, I feel less stress, and perhaps ironically, I feel more secure knowing that my future isn’t tied exclusively to the well-being of one company or organization that isn’t really worried about mine. I’ve come to view working for one employer as a gamble…betting my health, mental well-being, income, and life on something or someone who does not care. It’s simply a risk I’m not ready to take again.
Megan.
I can so relate to this. I’ve been mulling over whether to go back to full time employment because of the “stability” when freelancing gets challenging and it can get challenging but then I remember that employment is not so secure companies can change therefore they can lay off employees as they please. I also remember being an employee and at times it was not fun. I say to myself I will take my chances as an independent; as a freelancer I can always find work no matter what and there is so much room for personal growth.
Exactly…I think freelancing is one of those things that’s harder on the front end, but once you find your spot, it’s a better option hands down. I do think most people are best considering some sort of mixture though.