Many consider remote work to be the epitome of career self-actualization. However, it often sounds unrealistic or unachievable. Is it though? Well, the seemingly complex answer to this question is a resounding NO.
The early take-away
Then, how do you start a new chapter in life through remote work? Nobody is interested in your services. The reason for the fact that you’re scraping the bottom of the barrel is that you have no skills/portfolio to showcase, and no network to tap into (although, isn’t this a paradox when you’re just starting out?). To overcome this, you will have to tackle it like any (the implied keyword being self-made) recently graduated youth will have to approach their career for the first time: Start from the bottom. That’s right, accept the fact that you’re scraping the bottom; work your way to the top. And, trust me, it will be fun – way better than doing it old-school brick-and-mortar style (BUT, and I’m emphasizing this, you probably won’t get paid more than a dollar for an average workload).
Bullies, period.
Initially, money isn’t the issue here. It’s in how your clients/employers treat you. It’s your choice to accept a lower rate or fee, but you have no control in how you are treated. So, for the employers out there, don’t be bullies. Just because you’re paying people to work for you, doesn’t mean you have to monitor them every second, controlling their every move. No, that is modern slavery. Freelancing and remote work is all about the freedom factor; you aren’t getting a medical or retirement fund from freelancing, so it’s vital that you at least receive that benefit.
I have seen freelancers getting paid $5 to write 1000 words, and they’re expected to use time-tracking devices or should just accept poor feedback on freelancing platforms. I mean, you are already getting the best deal out of people who just want to gain some experience – there is absolutely no need to treat people like machines. Stop thinking “team leader” means you’re the “big boss” from, like, the early 1900s. You’re just a guideline in the grand scheme of things. And yes, this is relevant.
Conclusion
OK, so to the freelancers out there, sorry for my ranting. Don’t feel that there is no hope in remote work. The reality is that this world is filled with controlling, micro-managing maniacs. Nevertheless, that doesn’t mean you can’t have your cake and eat it too. Eventually, with enough commitment – and, of course, some luck – you can be earning a hefty amount through your online services.
Pro tips:
- Never underestimate your value. As the demand rises, don’t hesitate to increase your rates. Just don’t expect something completely unrealistic, especially when you need the income.
- Don’t be bullied. Demand your conditions.
- Bend the rules. Naturally, freelance platforms will have their rules and regs. But that doesn’t mean you can’t bend them slightly to amass great wealth.
- Avoid lengthy, unpaid tests. Chances are they’re just looking for free samples.
- Tailor your cover letters to be at least somewhat unique for every client. But that doesn’t mean you can’t copy/paste the majority of the relevant stuff (skills, employment history, etc.).
- Don’t give up your dreams – even if you are just looking to start a new chapter in life.
