5 Reasons Why Freelancing Is The Way Forward For A Graduate

While graduating can be an exciting time, it can also be quite daunting too. For many people who have just finished university studies, it means that it’s time to look for a job, and that can involve sending off an endless amount of applications, going to job interview after job interview and receiving a rejection (or not receiving rejections). Some graduates are lucky to find a job straight away or they are lucky to have a job lined up. But competition for work is fierce, and getting the job – especially the right role – is extremely tough.

However, there is an alternative. Many graduates and university students are now choosing to enter the route of self-employment and entrepreneurship, with many going on to freelance or set up their own businesses. Self-employment comes with its own challenges as well as its perks, but if you are a graduate, this might be the right path for you.

laptop and phone - 5 Reasons Why Freelancing Is The Way Forward For A Graduate

Here are 5 reasons why freelancing is the way forward for a graduate.

1. Freelancing allows you pursue your passion.

The best thing about becoming an entrepreneur is that it gives you the chance to pursue your talents and passions, and it gives you the chance to make a profit from those interests. Many people end up in jobs that are not fulfilling but by freelancing you can avoid that by taking the plunge and doing what you enjoy for a living. Choose your interests – whether that’s graphic design, marketing, public relations, copywriting, software development, app development, etc – and start making money. Freelancing in your chosen niche means that the possibilities are endless and there are so many avenues to go down.

1. Freelancing allows you to have freedom and flexibility in your schedule.

Freelancing means that you can be your own boss and that is amazing! You don’t have to answer to anyone. You don’t have to be in the traditional workplace by a certain time. As a freelancer, you have more of a chance to work remotely and that means that you can avoid the dreaded commute and save time and money. Freelancing allows you to live an alternative lifestyle, and you be as flexible as you please because you don’t have to work the typical 9-5 schedule. However, when you start out, the chances are that you may have to work more hours in a working week, but you can still be flexible. You are in complete control of your schedule and you can work when you want, where you want.

Home workstation: 5 Reasons Why Freelancing Is The Way Forward For A Graduate

1. Freelancing can help you to gain valuable work experience.

Even applying for work experience placements and internships can be extremely competitive and difficult, especially if you don’t have many connections and/or don’t live in particular regions. Freelancing gives you the chance to gain valuable work experience from anywhere in the world – as long as you have a laptop and internet connection – and that gives you the chance to build up your portfolio, set up your profile and build up your business.

1. Freelancing can help you to strengthen your skills and expertise.

In relation to the last point, freelancing is one of the best ways to hone your talents, strengthen your skills and increase your level of expertise, especially if you work in a niche market. Freelancing in your chosen role is a learning curve and you can pick up a lot of useful skills and experiences along the way, and this helps you to become an expert in your field, meaning that you are more likely to be in demand as time goes on.

1. The economy is changing.

There is no such thing as job stability anymore, and to be honest, the traditional mode of working 9-5 for someone else is outdated. The gig economy is now in full swing and more and more creatives and entrepreneurs are taking the plunge and becoming their own bosses because this method of working is much more appealing. The advancements in digital media and technology has made it possible for people to work anyhow and anywhere and the touch of a button.

All in all, freelancing is the best way forward if you are a graduate and you are starting out. Freelancing allows you to pursue your interests and be your own boss. Freelancing helps you to become an expert in your chosen field and it allows you to have total control over your work-life balance. Plus, times in the working world are changing and it’s best to just roll with the punches and see where that takes you!