More Americans—especially Millennials—are choosing the freelance life.
A new study released found 36% of the U.S. workforce, or 57.3 million Americans, are now freelancing. It means this share of the population is producing $1.4 trillion annually for the economy. Basically, 50 percent of Millennials are freelancers in some capacity. It’ll be interesting to see how the economy morphs and changes with market demands.
What does this mean? Those in the 18-to-34 demographic are abandoning the traditional 9-to-5 schedule by choosing more flexibility in their career path. While there is less stability and demonstrably less income when starting, Millennials don’t mind opting for freelance opportunities. They prefer happiness over rigid structure. Many Millennials—myself included—felt hampered by a lack of opportunities in our respective industries, which is why our generation is choosing to become self-employed.
Below are three common misconceptions associated with freelancers:
Myth: The “free” in freelancer means services are free or cheap.
Fact: The “free” in freelancer means having the freedom to choose how to work—not have free or cheap services. As a conservative, I’m a strong supporter of equal opportunities for all and the right for people to choose their own destiny, not a one-size-fit-path dictated by government or bureaucrats. In essence, freelancing enables participants in our economy to do that. This means getting a fair and proper compensation for the work you put into your job or project. This doesn’t means free or cheap labor. If someone pours in their blood, sweat, tears, network, and other tools into their client work (backed by a contract), they must receive proper compensation. Many entrepreneurial young people desire the freedom to choose their career path, not conform to conventional employment structures. Depending upon the freelancer, this group of business owners won’t charge ridiculous boutique retainer fees but aren’t on the cheap side either. If you’re a company seeking creative people for hire—whether permanent or temporary—seek out freelancers. Why? Freelancers feel “engaged, respected, empowered, and excited by their work.”
Myth: Freelancers are inexperienced
Fact: Freelancers are more innovative, creative, and attuned to the changing dynamics of our economy. A freelancer may be seen as lacking experience or professionalism—especially if they lack formal training and consistent work experiences. Nevertheless, freelancers are generally go-getters with impressive resumes that speak for themselves. Given their past work experiences, they have no issues socializing, pursuing opportunities, or taking risks. In sum, freelancers have found their niche and desire to excel in their craft. Why? They add creativity, think outside the box, and have a forward-thinking approach to storytelling, branding, and innovating products or services.
Myth: Freelancers are dangerous to the economy
Fact: An individual who has offered to creatively disrupt their industry shouldn’t be seen as a danger. They should be embraced and encouraged. How many American entrepreneurs went against the grain to achieve success, much to the chagrin of the entrepreneurial establishment AND government? Look at the accomplishments of America’s foremost entrepreneurs and their products. Without the work of individuals, there wouldn’t be a cotton gin, light bulb, telephone, airplane, or iPhone, for example, had it not been for American innovation. The next American innovator is out there and they will likely be a freelancer.
I’ve been self-employed since summer 2016 and have no regrets choosing to go down this path—especially as a daughter of a small business owner. In these past 1.5 years, I have been afforded more creative freedom, obtained more useful marketable skills, and feel more satisfied in my career. Had I settled for the status quo, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Many others have also taken a similar path more recently—including my former colleague and friend Jon Street (who has had bylines in various media outlets). I hope other Millennials, especially those in conservative and Republican politics, choose this route and help apply our values into mainstream industries.
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