‘I’ve lost my job. Should I go freelance?’

Today I’m analysing the situation of Jasmine. Jasmine reached out to me via LinkedIn asking for advice on freelancing. 

Jasmine has spent 8 years building a successful career as a Head of Marketing on the client side. 

What’s the challenge?

Recently, Jasmine was laid off in a redundancy round as her company was struggling financially.

Now, she’s talking to people in her network about freelancing. She likes the idea of getting some money coming in while she keeps hunting for her ‘dream job’. 

But she’s worried that taking a freelance role might take time away from her job search. 

The job hunt has already been time-consuming, and she’s not sure if she can juggle both. At the same time, her finances are running low, and she really needs something to bring in cash.

How did she get here?

With the economy being what it is and job hunts becoming longer and more drawn-out, the pressure to find something stable while keeping an eye on long-term goals is real. 

Freelancing seems like a great way to keep the cash flow coming in while she searches for something permanent, but the fear of distraction or not finding the right balance is holding her back.

How can she move forward?

Jasmine’s fear is valid - she’s balancing the need for income with the desire for a fulfilling, permanent role. 

But I believe freelancing can actually help her move forward and offers more opportunities than you see at first glance.

The argument for freelancing while job hunting

1. Freelance is a great option to get money in quickly

With hiring processes dragging on longer than ever, freelance roles are a fantastic way to get money coming in fast. 

I’ve seen clients do 8-10 interviews over 4-6 months before landing a permanent role, which is frustrating and can be financially draining. 

Freelance gigs move quickly, and you can often start a job within days or weeks.

2. Freelance can help rebuild your confidence

After a layoff, your confidence can take a hit, even if it wasn’t your fault. Freelancing can give you the chance to shine in a more flexible, less politically charged environment. 

You’re hired to do a specific job, and the focus is purely on your work. That’s a great way to remind yourself how good you are at what you do.

3. Freelance often turns into permanent work

Freelance roles are a great way for both you and the employer to test out the fit. In a recession, many companies turn to freelance or contract work before hiring full-time. 

If you do a great job, the company might offer you a permanent role down the line, just like I experienced when I freelanced at Nike before landing a permanent position.

If you find yourself without a role, don’t be afraid to consider freelancing. 

Freelancing can give you the breathing room you need. It might even open doors you didn't see coming. So, go for it!

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