Flexible working is the new way of working. In 2014, the Government enforced a new law allowing all employees to request flexible working from their employer. Here at Vrumi, we accommodate flexible workers with flexible workspace, and we’re seeing plenty of people (from full-time employees to full-time freelancers) making the most of flexible working.
What exactly does flexible working mean?
It means your working pattern is varied, as such, you may work from home, part time, flexitime, job sharing or shift working.
What does this mean if you’re a creative freelancer?
Undeniably, the life of a creative freelancer is tough. However, as flexible working becomes the norm, creative freelancers are able to embrace the benefits and are able to freelance whilst in employment.
How can you make the most of flexible working in your freelance career?
WORK SMARTER
The internet enables flexible working - it’s no coincidence that demand for flexible working has grown during this technological age. In order to make the most of flexible working, creative freelancers are using the cloud to store files; online conference calls to have virtual meetings and group calendars to organise teams.
You could also make the most of flexible working by downsizing in order to work from anywhere. If you are a desk based freelancer, try limiting your work essentials to what will fit in your laptop case. If you have lots of equipment, consider whether you’d benefit from using a bag with wheels, or a backpack in order to move around more efficiently.
ONE STEP AT A TIME
Flexible working can feel like a juggling act as freelancers are often switching between jobs. Project management software enables users to break their projects down into more manageable steps, so the tasks at hand don’t become overwhelming.
It’s important to take small steps when starting out working flexibly. Focus on one job at time; monotask, rather than multitask. If you are doing group work, be sure to give 100% to the task at hand. You’ll notice that your to-do list becomes far more manageable and you’ll have room to do the things that excite you.
STAY ON TRACK
It’s easy to become distracted when your working life becomes a mixbag of different jobs. Freelancers often lose sight of what it is they started working flexibly for. The most successful creative freelancers always keep their goals in plain sight.
Don’t lose track by making time to be creative. Start by putting an hour in the diary here and there for some pure creative thinking. Be sure to appreciate the ‘hard stops’ too, such as holidays and even lunch times in order to avoid burn out.
In Britain, we are working more than ever. But, it’s good to know that attitudes are changing and our working culture is becoming more flexible, allowing freelancers the time to be more creative and do what they love most.
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