Last week our freelancer WhatsApp group was discussing how to work on multiple projects at the same time. One of our members was looking to start doing this but was wondering about the logistics. It got me thinking that there are likely other freelancers that would like to move to this way of working but are unsure how.
Thanks for sharing Emma, this is super helpful in expanding my thinking as I’m figuring out the transition from “perm” to freelance. I wonder if you have any tips for finding projects on a 1-2 days per week commitment?
As a user researcher, I haven’t yet come across anything that’s less than 3 days per week. Something I’m quite keen on trying is having one slightly longer and consistent project for 3 days per week and then taking on smaller 1-2 day per week projects. (I did have a 2.5 day project recently that I loved but haven’t come across anything else like that.)
Do you think there specific types of organisations or industries that tend to hire this way? Or is it about positioning yourself more as a consultant rather than contractor? Or perhaps it’s just different between research and design role?
Thanks again for sharing your insights so generously!
Good question. Some of the projects I do through small agencies are like this, tending towards 2 days/week. I've also go work that's smaller direct, most recently through local authorities. Some of my direct client work that is spread over a longer period of time works out like this too. This has been mostly charity sector. I think national Gov tends to be less in this space. Hope that helps.
Thanks for sharing Emma, this is super helpful in expanding my thinking as I’m figuring out the transition from “perm” to freelance. I wonder if you have any tips for finding projects on a 1-2 days per week commitment?
As a user researcher, I haven’t yet come across anything that’s less than 3 days per week. Something I’m quite keen on trying is having one slightly longer and consistent project for 3 days per week and then taking on smaller 1-2 day per week projects. (I did have a 2.5 day project recently that I loved but haven’t come across anything else like that.)
Do you think there specific types of organisations or industries that tend to hire this way? Or is it about positioning yourself more as a consultant rather than contractor? Or perhaps it’s just different between research and design role?
Thanks again for sharing your insights so generously!
Good question. Some of the projects I do through small agencies are like this, tending towards 2 days/week. I've also go work that's smaller direct, most recently through local authorities. Some of my direct client work that is spread over a longer period of time works out like this too. This has been mostly charity sector. I think national Gov tends to be less in this space. Hope that helps.
Thank you 😌