Ask anybody whether they would like to work from home and they will nod their head even before you can say, 'but can you handle it?' The population of freelancers is increasing quite drastically as the years pass, and with the amount of 'work for hire' work available, the population will only be rising as the years pass. However, we should also consider the fact that the attrition levels in freelancing is also a matter of concern. Almost every other month we hear or see some other telecommuter giving up their comfortable confines of their homes and returning to their so called stable 9-5. Of course, not all of these cases are due to mistakes that the freelancer commits, but at least some of these situations may have been salvaged if these fatal mistakes were not committed:
Considering Freelancing to be 'Fun':
This is by far the most fatal mistake that a new freelancer can commit. A freelancing career is similar to starting your own business, where you are the owner and you are responsible for whether it works or does not. There are several responsibilities that you begin with, like determination, willingness to work, commitment and communication, etc. If you do not have these qualities and traits in you, you may ask well kiss your freelancing career a firm goodbye even before it begins.
Wanting the Big Bucks from Day One:
I wouldn't exactly blame a new freelancer if they consider themselves to be on the way for an all expenses paid trip around the world at the end of the month just because they have begun freelancing. As previously noted, freelancing is like a business, and most businesses require at least six months to two years to begin looking up and for the person to break even.
Not considering it 'Seriously':
This might be quite strange for the veterans, but another weird idea that people have is that freelancing is something that they do 'in between' or something that 'doesn't have a scope'. Of course, this might be fueled by the cultures and backgrounds that they come from - there are still some cultures and societies that think that if a person is working from home, they are basically waiting for a proper job opportunity!
Of course, there are several other mistakes that may be more fatal than these, but these are so commonly found that they may be the profession killers. It is quite necessary that a freelancer understand what they are getting into before they take the freelancing plunge. The common misconception is that freelancing is a fun job and it does not have as much of stress as an actual 9-5 Job. If you are successful in avoiding these mistakes, telecommuting can actually be pretty good for you.
Roy D is a freelance writer who provides important information about freelancing at The Freelance Resource. He also speaks about various perils of freelancing like Freelance Scams at his site.
