Freelancing is the subject of much ink as the gig economy keeps on growing. Frequently portrayed as the future of work, freelancing is not always the Holy Grail of well-being … especially not in tech, an area that is so buoyant.
Whoever says freelance often implies freedom, autonomy, a passion-driven career. But make no mistake: the reality is often far from ideal. Freelance status is also synonymous with limited social protections, fluctuating activity and having to deal with a good amount of internal red tape. A mixed bag, then. A status that might not always be enviable.
What’s it like in the fields of technology, digital and data, which are particularly dynamic and hungry for talent? Are freelancers to envy or do they face the same difficulties?
Tech, a sector rather favourable to freelancers
It is quite evident that the situation of freelancers in tech is significantly better than for those in other sectors. With the same level of experience, a freelance web developer or a SAP consultant will find it easier to find assignments and will be better paid than a freelance photographer or a communications consultant.
Firstly, because the
talent war is particularly intense in these areas of competence, with companies
fighting to attract and retain the best profiles. Secondly, because in tech and
digital companies often work in “project mode”. This operational
mentality lends itself very well to freelancing, with very specific skill needs
and limited time.
And this trend is accelerating
— Organizations are progressively opening up to the idea of collaborating
with freelancers and are increasingly structured in ways that allow for greater
integration of this type of employee. However, on closer inspection, the
reality is more heterogeneous than it seems.
Varying career prospects
As in all sectors and areas
of activity, it can be difficult for freelance consultants to make themselves
visible to companies. Furthermore, the logic of supply and demand varies
greatly depending on the field and the function.
If a consultant with expertise in SAP management software is in addition specialized in a specific SAP module, they will be able to expect an average daily rate of between 500 and 850 pounds. Meanwhile, an independent web designer will often be satisfied with a daily salary of 250 to 350 pounds.
Beginners can find it
difficult to find a place among the experts, as companies never hire a
freelancer that needs to be trained. Additionally, for assignments that require
a lower level of expertise, firms are more likely to call on lower-cost,
offshore services.
In contrast, some tech
freelancers hold a “rockstar” status, with a very high level of
experience, highly specialized and sought-after skills, and excellent
references. These profiles have a particularly enviable situation because they
are over-solicited by recruiters and agents, and therefore in a position to
impose very high levels of remuneration and particularly advantageous
contractual conditions.
These rare profiles do
not endure a latency period between two gigs, often have higher salaries than
they would on permanent contracts, and enjoy the luxury of being able to choose
their assignments. All the advantages of being self-employed, without the
constraints.
Freelancers in tech: what is the recipe for success?
No miraculous formula
here: success is first reserved for those who have proven themselves in terms
of results and performance in the workplace. Reliability and flawlessness are
fundamental.
And that’s not all.
The entrepreneurial spirit counts quite a lot. Working freelance is a lifestyle
choice that does not suit everyone. You must know how to manage the relational
aspect and build trust with your customers, juggling between know-how and
interpersonal skills. It’s also important to know how to make the right career
choices.
What does exactly mean
to make the right career choices? Well, first specialize in areas of expertise
and / or sectors where the demand is high. Among the highly rated profiles of
the moment: SAP consultants, Microsoft technology specialists and security and
infrastructure expert.
Then you must make an
effort to continuously improve and develop your skillset. Build a good CV with
solid experiences, keep abreast and adapt to technological developments.
Finally, learn how to enhance your profile and experiences, manage your
visibility and maintain and nurture your professional network. It’s not easy
when you’re independent since you often tend to focus on the present or the
near future.
The good news is that
you’re not alone. Tech recruiters and sourcing experts are well placed to guide
professionals in the management of their development, as well as in the present
and future development of their skills.
In summary, if tech freelancers want to be successful in this ever-evolving market, it is vital for them to know how to seize the right opportunities while positioning themselves in the best niches of expertise.
And thus the “rockstar” is born.