.
After the “gig economy” boom 2 years ago, the trend towards freelance is still going strong. Whether you call them contractors, consultants or guns for hire, those working freelance are the unsung heroes of the startup ecosystem. There is an increasing trend among the most talented startup workers to take on interesting side projects in addition to their day jobs. If you are considering taking on a freelance project, but not sure whether it’s for you, read on.
Here are 7 reasons why everyone should try working freelance for a startup, even if they’re currently working full time:
#1 Work on interesting projects

#2 Supplement your income
#3 Meet interesting people
#4 Work where and when you want

#5 Develop professionally
#6 Become a mini-entrepreneur
As a freelancer, even if it’s just for a few hours a month, you’ll quickly get a real understanding of the mechanics of running a small business. Invoices, tax, and your own business development are all some of the things you’ll quickly become familiar with. You basically become the CEO of your own mini company, and you get a real rounded appreciation for the ‘not-quite-so-sexy’ parts of running a business.
#7 Try out other things without committing
Moving company is a big decision. Doing some freelance work for another company isn’t. Part time freelancing is the perfect way to dip your feet into the water with another company. There is much less commitment, and you don’t have to leave your current job. You get all the benefit of being able to see the inner workings of a potentially interesting company, without the commitment of joining it full time. Don’t forget that it’s also a great way of the company testing you out – in many cases it just an extended job interview.
Final point – check with your employer first, as some contracts don’t allow you to take on ‘paid work’ by default. Normally a friendly chat with your boss will be all it takes to get round this, but it’s important to have that conversation.
By Alastair Budge, founder of Getconsulted and Startupconsultants
Consulted is a members-only network of startup talent, available on an hourly basis. It was founded in 2016 by Alastair Budge, with the aim of connecting small businesses with seasoned startup experts.
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