We are rolling into the second #FreelanceLife of the year!
By now the New Year is in full swing, resolutions are going strong (or have already been forgotten) and one thing you may have thought about doing in 2018 is going Freelance. Whether you have or not, this series is the perfect way for you to get a true insight into what it's like to be a freelancer from the highs, to the lows.
This chapter we follow Kat, Creative Designer and Illustrator extraordinaire! Kat has worked within design and illustration for over 6 years and now works as a freelancer, specialising in producing creative design and illustration for advertising and brands. A familiar face on the Birmingham freelance scene, you may remember Kat from our special edition of #FreelanceLife when we went on the road to Glug Birmingham.
Over to you Kat...
1. What is your favourite thing about being a Freelancer?
The freedom to work on what I want - whether that's at different agencies or with my own clients, you feel really in control of your own progression and career path.
2. What is your least favourite thing about being a Freelancer?
I haven't encountered too many issues with being freelance so far, but I'd say probably remembering to file my receipts!
3. What skills are essential for a Freelancer?
I'd say you need to be ambitious, and determined.
I've definitely found it's important to be friendly too - you meet so many people being freelance, it's definitely a people person job I think!
4. On average, what time do you start and finish work?
It depends on the type of projects I'm on, if I'm doing agency work it tends to be between 9-6pm, but my illustration projects can be a bit looser.
5. How often do you work remotely?
I'd say about half the time I'm remote. I work at a few agencies that are really good with letting me working remotely, but there are some places where it's easier if I work in the studio. My illustration projects are generally all remote because I'm painting or doing traditional work, which can be a little messy - and I have a good set-up at home. Or if I am working remotely doing digital/design work I will go set up in cafe, or a workspace out and about as I enjoy working with other freelancers when I can.
6. What do you wish someone had told you when you were starting out?
I know quite a few other freelancers who eased me into working freelance and they were so supportive when I was starting out. I made sure I sussed up before I did it full-time, so I didn't really have any big surprises.
7. Would you ever consider going for a permanent position?
I think if it was the right fit for me then I would consider it, but at the moment I'm really enjoying the freelance life.
8. What is the standout memory from your Freelance Career?
I think the day after I left my permanent job and I was contacting people about freelance. It was such a great feeling - I mean it was mixed with emotions of nervousness I think, but it also felt empowering that I was now starting out on my own.
And a silly one .. because we had too!
9. What song best represents your Freelance state of mind?
I think I'm going to go with 'Free Bird' Lynyrd Skynyrd...
If you want to work with Kat on some of your creative projects get in touch with me today.
As always, we love hearing all about your #FreelanceLife so if you want to share yours, contact one of the team today. You can get up to date with all the previous chapters and special editions of #FreelanceLife via the blog here.
