There are many benefits to choosing to work on a freelance basis. We take a look at its popularity across industry sectors…
Some jobs lend themselves to freelancing more so than others. And with data from Labour Force Survey (LFS) showing there are around 1.91 million freelance workers in the UK – making up 6% of employed workers in the country – there’s plenty of options for those wanting to make the move.
We take a look at the 5 most popular sectors for freelancers…
1. Artistic, literary and media occupations
Jobs…actors, writers, designers, and social media managers.
This sector is one of the fastest growing for freelancers, which is no surprise with the developments in online and digital. Creativity is the key here, and it can be much more freeing to think up the next social media trend when you’re not confined to an office.
All you really need is…a laptop, a good internet connections and the ability to think outside the box. Although having the latest technology will be essential for designers, photographers and directors.
2. Managers and proprietors in other services
Jobs…shopkeepers, environmental services managers, property managers.
Freelancers in this sector typically co-ordinate and direct the resources and activities of service providers. Rather than being in-house, freelancing allows for a greater scope of work.
As this is a demanding sector, competition will be high and the hours will be long, so it’s essential for freelancers to build up a strong reputation to maintain job stability.
3. Teaching and educational professionals
Jobs…tutors, education consultants and school inspectors.
Workers in this sector will invariably have chosen to go freelance after gaining experience in a permanent, full-time role in the industry. They organise and provide instruction in academic and vocational subjects.
School and college term times affect working hours in this sector, so job planning needs to revolve around the school year.
4. Information technology and telecommunications professionals
Jobs… IT consultants, software and systems testers and quality analysts.
IT and telecom freelancers work in testing, implementing and developing quality standards for the industry, as well as managing security. As this type of work can easily be segmented into projects, hiring freelancers is often preferable to having an in-house team.
This sector requires vocational, professional and postgraduate qualifications, as well as knowledge of the latest technology and communications systems.
5. Health professionals
Jobs…psychologists, pharmacists, medical radiographers and dental practitioners.
The health profession is notoriously split into two distinct pay groups. Going freelance as a health professional provides greater opportunity for better pay and working hours. Health professionals can diagnose, treat or carry out medical testing, as well as conducting research and dispensing pharmaceuticals.
The lack of job stability can mean longer hours as a freelance health professional and the dependence on medical equipment can make it more difficult.
Posted by Julie Tucker