It is not a secret that the world is shifting away from the traditional nine-to-five job towards a “gig-economy”, with more and more people acknowledging freelancers as an independent and professional component of the workforce. Twofour54, Abu Dhabi’s Media Zone, has numerous freelancers registered through its database, advertising their skills via its website to help connect registered entities with those looking to employ them. I am one of those people.
Last year, Forbes said there are 53 million freelancers in the United States, with that number expected to increase to the point that 50 per cent of the workforce comprises freelancers. A week ago, I was at a dinner party when an Emirati graphic designer stated that she was so bored and limited by her job that she was considering becoming a freelance graphic designer full time, allowing her to unleash her creativity in the way she wants. She felt inspired after noticing several of her designer friends doing financially well managing their own businesses or freelancing. Interestingly, also, my Saudi friend from Riyadh told me how many millennials there are becoming Uber drivers by night and enjoying the extra stream of income.
The beauty here is being able to enjoy multiple streams of income while doing the things you enjoy. For instance, you could be a graphic designer by day, cater for your food truck at the weekend and be an Uber driver at night. The more diverse your skills, the more exposed you are to new opportunities. Here’s some advice on how to enjoy a second, or even third, stream of income:
First build a portfolio. If you are a graphic designer, artist, writer or even a good business consultant, have a website showcasing your skills. This makes it easier to circulate to your friends and colleagues. With the availability of platforms such as wordpress.com and wix.com, you can have a professional-looking website in no time. You can have it on a free domain or even buy your own. These two options provide an easy step-by-step process to follow, plus they suit people with different budgets.
Instead of hustling and depending on asking your friends to recommend you to person XYZ, websites such as Tispr, Fiverr, and 99designs are made with freelancers on mind. These mobile platforms connect independent service providers with those who need their services. Want someone to quickly edit and retouch your photo? You could do so instantly on Fiverr. Or say you need a logo or a business card designed in 48 hours, 99designs allows you to choose from the different packages, list your requirements and then wait for different people to share their initial designs. You can then choose the design you like, have that designer refine it and have it downloaded to your desktop within the set time frame. Tispr, on the other hand, connects you with a variety of service providers such as make-up artists and underwater photographers.
I recommend checking out these different websites and, depending on your skills, sign up. You could generate a second stream of income on your weekends, or after working hours. If you do not have a full-time job, then dedicate more time to these sites to increase your income. But don’t forget to share your skills on social media too. Platforms such as LinkedIn are great for connecting with professionals. Many public and government organisations work with freelance photographers, designers, and copywriters. It allows them to tap fresh talent without having to hire them full-time. Also, many of organisations are doing so as their way of supporting local talent and small businesses. If you have friends working for leading organisations, let them know you are available, share your portfolio and contact details.
The great thing about freelancing is that you can enjoy an extra source of income by doing what you love. If you have a talent or a hobby that could make you some money, then start today.
Manar Al Hinai is an award-winning Emirati writer who manages a branding and marketing consultancy in Abu Dhabi. Twitter: @manar_alhinai.
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