The Benefits of the Home-Office is a thought provoking article about the impact of freelancing phenomena on the general society. I have never given a thought on how freelancing would have an impact on the general society on a more general per-se.
For me, the main concern has been around acceptance of freelancers on the society. Because I know first hand in Sri Lanka freelancing is loosely interpreted as unemployed. There could be a few high flying consultants having successful freelancing careers but for the majority it is interpreted in a completely different way. I mean, you cannot get a mortgage on house if you are a freelancer.
On that note, I look forward to the day the freelancing phenomena changes the general rules by which the society operates and in the process gains legitimacy on the societal pillars! As for my freelancing career, well it will be on hold for a while as I am going for a mortgage and they require me to have a salary coming in from a permanent employment for the next 15 years!
Damn!
Monday, November 12, 2007
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2 comments:
Sometime back, I have recruited two software engineers who used to be freelancers. Both turned out to be incredibly talented but struggled to meet deadlines and work according to a set process. That I believe is what causes organizations to be careful in hiring freelancers - possible lack of decipline. While I know this is a gross generalisation, there is a lot to be done in this society to polish up the image of freelancers.
Hi Bimal,
I have since moved ahead. From being a freelancer to hiring freelancers to work under me to starting a company and hiring full time employees.
I think it all boils down to discipline and taking ownership. If someone needs constant guidance and not good at being self managed, they will suck as freelancers, no matter hoe technically competent they are.
One thing I value in my employees is their ability to get things done, with minimal supervision. Even now, I allow such employees to telecommute. While working in the same office has its benefits, for someone who can run with minimal supervision, freelancing or telecommuting will work out.
I agree we have to move forward in terms of our views of freelancers and freelancing in general. Having said that, even now, I am interested in connecting with other freelancers to build a network of professionals to off load my over capacity work.
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