Related Posts
Every time I do a separate statement
Alright who did this
Travel opportunities in SAP SDC?
What are you most excited about in this space?
Additional Posts in Advertising
Industry-wide layoffs tomorrow or nah?
Where is the lie
How do we feel about JOAN?
Marcel will be descoped to a filing cabinet...
New to Fishbowl?
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
It truly depends on your network. In my experience, many freelancers travel in a pod so to speak. Recommending each other and booking with the same houses in a non formal circle. They’ve essentially hacked the code with this tactic. If you find yourself in that kind of situation, it can be amazing for you. You’ll be able to maintain a certain lifestyle.
I tried freelancing once, considering the dismal circumstances I was in, but I wasn’t a fan. It’s difficult to join a circle without those connections. Definitely not for the meek or those supporting themselves with major responsibilities. Running gig to gig is difficult/stressful. If you can find a permanent spot at a company you enjoy/tolerate.. I recommend that. But I’m the type of person who really needs a sense of consistency when it comes to work. You should definitely consider what kind of stability you need before taking that leap.
Wail their sad songs 🤓
Chief
It depends on your stage of career and life I suppose. Up to date portfolio full of great work? You can survive a couple years not producing. Family of five and non-working spouse? Then the periods without work will be nerve wracking.
The measured responses here are more accurate than the usual exuberance you find on this app. It can be good, even great. But it can suck hard when that phone stops ringing just a little, then a lot longer than you expected.
Chief
It's different. But it's not a magic bullet.
When it's good, it's good. When it's not, it's not. I recommend trying it if you're curious. You can always go back to FT. A year or so is enough time to tell whether it's for you or not.
It's definitely glamorized. But, I wouldn't trade having flexibility for anything!
Make sure you have enough of a financial cushion to cover the slow parts and it really can be a dream come true. Freedom has its benefits.
Chief
Fair 👆 I’ve seen that but I’ve also seen and experienced some of best work coming from freelance gigs.
Rising Star
It’s extremely hard, but worth it if you can make it work for you
Chief
We’ll see! Used to be great. But, I’m just starting back up. Im cautiously optimistic. First hard part so far has been finding a sick writer partner, since I’ve been a solo CD for years.
Chief
A series of FT opportunities. I usually use freelance as a bridge between two jobs when I’m fried and need some time to reenergize / get a new look at different brands and teams. It’s worked out previously, but I’m a bit more senior now, so curious how it’ll work. That uneasy feeling of not having a steady paycheck is exhilarating and worrying. ;)
Freelance slowly erodes your book so make sure to bag at least one portfolio-worthy addition per year.
Chief
I added testimonials to my site that help if you're cold emailing. I think it helps strangers get a sense of who you are.
I went freelance during the sizzling-hot market in 2006. In 2008, all my gigs dried up.
Did you stick it out or go back to full time?
Pro
All care and no responsibility. That’s the part I like.