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How Pitch does it
Our dedicated Freelance & Interim team is able to support all roles across marketing, communication, digital, sales, tech and creative. Whether, maternity cover, fixed contract or last-minute support for a few days, we have a vast network of clients and skilled contractors across the UK.
We understand how hectic and busy the world of freelance can be so our whole proposition is built on one principle: we want to take all the hassle & stress off you.
Our incredibly simple online portal makes submitting and approving time-sheets a piece of cake which means getting paid as a contractor and keeping on top of your paperwork doesn’t take time away from the day job.
We build valued relationships with our clients & contractors by understanding the markets in which they operate. We ask all the right questions to ensure that we’re as confident as we can be that we’re matching the right candidates with those clients.
Perfect pitch is the skill of being able to instantly recognise any note and it’s this level of harmony we strive for with every booking.
What we cover
Our Tech Consultants are digitally-neutral and so not limited to supplying only certain skills. We work to what best suits your business model and objectives.
Some of the other skills we cover across our contractor network:
- Marketing/Digital Marketing
- Branding / Category
- Social Media
- External & internal comms
- Business Development / Sales
- UX/UI
- Strategy & Planning
- National Sales - FMCG
- Front & Back End Development
- Creative/Artwork
- Controller - FMCG
- Architects
- Web Design
- Account/Project Management
- SEO & PPC
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Our Latest Jobs
Our latest opinions
8 months ago
By Ellie Tibbs
How the growth of freelancers is enabling new technology
According to recent estimates, the freelance sector contributes around £145 billion to the UK economy each year, with this figure anticipated to continue increasing as workers seek more flexibility in their lifestyle. It is vital to recognise freelancers are split into different categories with project based workers (73%), gig-based (14%) and portfolio based (12%) freelancers the most commonly seen. An overall increase in these is sparking new technological developments, which are set to enhance connectivity across these categories and with employers. Not just limited to social media, the launch of platforms like Uber Work and UnderPinned seek to increase the availability and ease of freelance work through creating virtual offices. It is here where work can be found, projects managed and financial payments co-ordinated. The introduction of these technologies increases the accessibility of freelance contracts and further provides a source of accountability for all parties involved. For instance, with around 70% of freelancers stating invoices were paid late during 2018, the introduction of new technologies which enforce stricter and more controlled processes can only be seen to benefit freelancers. However technology is not just evolving due to the growth of the freelance sector, it is further innovating because of them. Whilst the UK lags behind Europe in implementing digital transformations, nine out of ten companies would consider automating and digitising more processes over the next 12 months. A core issue however, is that a digital skills shortage exists across the UK, where only 25% of business leaders believe the current workforce holds the required expertise to implement digital strategies. These shortages are predominant in regions like Wales, the North East and North West alongside the East and West Midlands, where implementing a digital transformation could be made more difficult. To create short-term fixes and ensure projects are completed on time and to budget, 30% of corporations are likely to hire a freelance worker with a further 33% recruiting outside of the traditional talent pool. With digital transformations following a process of insight and strategy development to road mapping and design/delivery involvement, these projects can benefit an entire workforce of Marketing Strategists, Project Managers and UX/UI designers to name only a few. By using freelancers to ensure projects are completed effectively, companies can be anticipated to benefit. Namely, 62% of workers experience efficiency gains from the adoption of digital tools implemented during transformation projects, making businesses more profitable in the long-run. The introduction of new technologies can have a significant effect on the financial prospects of freelancers and businesses alike, highlighting growth across this sector is likely to have a positive economic effect for the UK. For a deeper discussion about how you could become involved in freelance work or a digital transformation project, or wish to recruit for one get in touch with us today. Image credit: Header: Closeup of black and blue keyboard by Marta Branco https://www.pexels.com/photo/closeup-photo-of-black-and-blue-keyboard-1194713/ Image 1: Photo of turned on laptop computer by Danny Meneses https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-turned-on-laptop-computer-943096/ Image 2: Photo of person typing on computer keyboard by Soumil Kumar https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-person-typing-on-computer-keyboard-735911/
How the growth of freelancers is enabling new technology
According to recent estimates, the freelance sector contributes around £145 billion to the UK economy each year, with this figure anticipated to continue increasing as workers seek more flexibility in their lifestyle. It is vital to recognise freelancers are split into different categories with project based workers (73%), gig-based (14%) and portfolio based (12%) freelancers the most commonly seen. An overall increase in these is sparking new technological developments, which are set to enhance connectivity across these categories and with employers. Not just limited to social media, the launch of platforms like Uber Work and UnderPinned seek to increase the availability and ease of freelance work through creating virtual offices. It is here where work can be found, projects managed and financial payments co-ordinated. The introduction of these technologies increases the accessibility of freelance contracts and further provides a source of accountability for all parties involved. For instance, with around 70% of freelancers stating invoices were paid late during 2018, the introduction of new technologies which enforce stricter and more controlled processes can only be seen to benefit freelancers. However technology is not just evolving due to the growth of the freelance sector, it is further innovating because of them. Whilst the UK lags behind Europe in implementing digital transformations, nine out of ten companies would consider automating and digitising more processes over the next 12 months. A core issue however, is that a digital skills shortage exists across the UK, where only 25% of business leaders believe the current workforce holds the required expertise to implement digital strategies. These shortages are predominant in regions like Wales, the North East and North West alongside the East and West Midlands, where implementing a digital transformation could be made more difficult. To create short-term fixes and ensure projects are completed on time and to budget, 30% of corporations are likely to hire a freelance worker with a further 33% recruiting outside of the traditional talent pool. With digital transformations following a process of insight and strategy development to road mapping and design/delivery involvement, these projects can benefit an entire workforce of Marketing Strategists, Project Managers and UX/UI designers to name only a few. By using freelancers to ensure projects are completed effectively, companies can be anticipated to benefit. Namely, 62% of workers experience efficiency gains from the adoption of digital tools implemented during transformation projects, making businesses more profitable in the long-run. The introduction of new technologies can have a significant effect on the financial prospects of freelancers and businesses alike, highlighting growth across this sector is likely to have a positive economic effect for the UK. For a deeper discussion about how you could become involved in freelance work or a digital transformation project, or wish to recruit for one get in touch with us today. Image credit: Header: Closeup of black and blue keyboard by Marta Branco https://www.pexels.com/photo/closeup-photo-of-black-and-blue-keyboard-1194713/ Image 1: Photo of turned on laptop computer by Danny Meneses https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-turned-on-laptop-computer-943096/ Image 2: Photo of person typing on computer keyboard by Soumil Kumar https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-person-typing-on-computer-keyboard-735911/
9 months ago
By Ellie Tibbs
The benefits of hiring a temporary worker
According to the CIPD Labour Market Outlook, during 2019, 29% of employers have found it difficult to retain staff. Whilst employees leave roles for a variety of reasons, the effect their departure has on internal teams can be damaging and have a significant effect on long-term corporate performance. Whilst firms seek to retain lost talent, 72% of employers consider skill shortages in the market to be negatively impacting the hiring process, causing the average recruitment time to lengthen by an additional 52 days. This is shown to negatively impact business functionality, where a loss of key figures combined with an over reliance on less skilled employees means the quality of work produced may decline, adding additional stresses to an already stretched workforce. This is shown to lead to increased levels of burnout, a contributory factor towards high staff-turnover rates. It is therefore vital organisations reconsider their permanent hiring approach to ensure they fill gaps and maintain employee satisfaction. Organisations may do this by introducing a temporary/interim staff member to fill the gap, which though may be seen as an extra cost in the immediate period, may help reduce stress levels for your permanent members of staff. As you are taking into consideration their already heavy workloads, it may also help staff look favourably on the organisation. The skills shortage has been shown to impede the hiring process, especially when searching for senior figures with specialist skillsets. If this role is urgent, you may only hire permanent talent which fulfils part of your criteria, creating a short-term solution to your wider issue. This can be avoided by utilising a temporary staff member, who will enable you to make more deliberate decisions regarding who you hire, which is likely to have a positive long-term effect on your business - some firms even reporting double digit growth as a result of hiring top candidates. Losing an employee can be disruptive to project schedules. Replacing previous talent with an individual who requires training and additional support has been shown to increase the amount of time invested into a project, causing projects to go off budget and over-schedule. Hiring a temporary member of staff who is used to working to short deadlines and is an expert in their field is a useful way to ensure your projects remain on track, whilst you source more permanent talent to fulfil all of your criteria. In recognition of these benefits, we provide a dedicated temporary and interim recruitment team, who are able to support across all roles within the Marketing, Technological and Commercial markets. To have a more in-depth chat about how we can help you during your time of need, get in touch with us today. Image credit: Header: Man in whiteshirt using Macbook Pro by Tim Gouw https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-in-white-shirt-using-macbook-pro-52608/ Image 1: Photo of man holding pen by fauxels https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-man-holding-pen-3182752/
The benefits of hiring a temporary worker
According to the CIPD Labour Market Outlook, during 2019, 29% of employers have found it difficult to retain staff. Whilst employees leave roles for a variety of reasons, the effect their departure has on internal teams can be damaging and have a significant effect on long-term corporate performance. Whilst firms seek to retain lost talent, 72% of employers consider skill shortages in the market to be negatively impacting the hiring process, causing the average recruitment time to lengthen by an additional 52 days. This is shown to negatively impact business functionality, where a loss of key figures combined with an over reliance on less skilled employees means the quality of work produced may decline, adding additional stresses to an already stretched workforce. This is shown to lead to increased levels of burnout, a contributory factor towards high staff-turnover rates. It is therefore vital organisations reconsider their permanent hiring approach to ensure they fill gaps and maintain employee satisfaction. Organisations may do this by introducing a temporary/interim staff member to fill the gap, which though may be seen as an extra cost in the immediate period, may help reduce stress levels for your permanent members of staff. As you are taking into consideration their already heavy workloads, it may also help staff look favourably on the organisation. The skills shortage has been shown to impede the hiring process, especially when searching for senior figures with specialist skillsets. If this role is urgent, you may only hire permanent talent which fulfils part of your criteria, creating a short-term solution to your wider issue. This can be avoided by utilising a temporary staff member, who will enable you to make more deliberate decisions regarding who you hire, which is likely to have a positive long-term effect on your business - some firms even reporting double digit growth as a result of hiring top candidates. Losing an employee can be disruptive to project schedules. Replacing previous talent with an individual who requires training and additional support has been shown to increase the amount of time invested into a project, causing projects to go off budget and over-schedule. Hiring a temporary member of staff who is used to working to short deadlines and is an expert in their field is a useful way to ensure your projects remain on track, whilst you source more permanent talent to fulfil all of your criteria. In recognition of these benefits, we provide a dedicated temporary and interim recruitment team, who are able to support across all roles within the Marketing, Technological and Commercial markets. To have a more in-depth chat about how we can help you during your time of need, get in touch with us today. Image credit: Header: Man in whiteshirt using Macbook Pro by Tim Gouw https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-in-white-shirt-using-macbook-pro-52608/ Image 1: Photo of man holding pen by fauxels https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-man-holding-pen-3182752/
11 months ago
By Ellie Tibbs
An outlook: The future of freelancers
Over the past ten years, the numbers of freelancers within the UK has steadily increased aligned with greater desires for flexibility within the workplace. Now contributing towards 41% of the self-employed sector (2018), it is clear freelancing as a career has been on the rise. However, with growth comes difficulties and with the great B(rexit) word on the horizon and increased freelancer demands for a work-life balance, we are asking the question, are the freelancers in danger? p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; color: #000000} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; color: #000000; min-height: 14.0px} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} Trouble on the horizon? The B-word p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Arial; color: #000000} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Arial; color: #000000; min-height: 12.0px} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} span.s2 {text-decoration: underline ; font-kerning: none; color: #1155cc} We are sure you have heard enough about the dreaded B(rexit) word, and regardless of which side of the fence you stand, it is undeniable that it is taking over our lives and contributing towards stress. For freelancers, political indecisiveness has contributed towards greater levels of uncertainty and pessimism surrounding the stability of the self-employed sector. Reports indicate nearly half of self-employed workers believe Brexit will have a negative effect on their business, with younger workers holding greater levels of concern than older counterparts. These figures are troubling for Freelancers for whom, levels of growth across the sector may stagnate in favour for more permanent or part-time roles. Though only speculation, the industry has already been hit by a 67% slump in sales for UK freelancers based in the EU, sparking concerns regarding the sector's stability in a post-Brexit environment. However though across the EU the role of UK freelancers appears in question, domestically the picture is less glum. Recent reports from The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, highlight creative industry employment is growing as fast as the UK economy, with a 1.6% increase on 2018 figures, positively boosting opportunities in Marketing, Visual Arts and Computer Services countrywide. The Midlands comes out top, followed by East Anglia and the North East and North West regions - meaning freelancers can hold confidence in the home market and the opportunities it provides for the immediate period. p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; color: #000000} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} We want it all! p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Arial; color: #000000} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Arial; color: #000000; min-height: 12.0px} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} span.s2 {text-decoration: underline ; font-kerning: none; color: #1155cc} It comes as no surprise the desire to work as a freelancer stems from the wish to escape the 9-5 career in favour for flexibility in employment. However even here, significant developments are emerging, with freelancers globally demonstrating more favourability towards earning less money in favour for longer-term work, a consistent paycheck and holiday benefits. As industry competition is intensifying whilst creative industries grow, the ability for firms to recognise and adapt to candidate expectations is pivotal now more than ever in order to ensure the continued attraction of freelancers in an ever changing market. It is evident the freelance industry is undergoing a significant period of change and development. Though Brexit uncertainty holds the potential to dampen corporate investment, if firms are willing to be adaptable to changing market dynamics, adapting their processes to suit market conditions and candidate needs, the outlook of the freelance industry appears positive for the immediate term. p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Arial; color: #000000} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} span.s2 {text-decoration: underline ; font-kerning: none; color: #1155cc} Looking to enter a freelance role or require coverage? Our dedicated Temp & Contract team are able to support all roles across marketing, commercial and FMCG sectors. Whether, maternity cover, fixed contract or last-minute support for a few days, we have a vast network of clients and skilled contractors across the UK with key talent based in Birmingham and Manchester. Visit us today. Image Credit: Header: Beige wooden desk by Proxyclick Visitor Management System https://www.pexels.com/photo/beige-wooden-desk-2451568/ Image 1: Macbook Pro on Brown Wooden Table by Andrew Neel https://www.pexels.com/photo/macbook-pro-on-brown-wooden-table-2312369/
An outlook: The future of freelancers
Over the past ten years, the numbers of freelancers within the UK has steadily increased aligned with greater desires for flexibility within the workplace. Now contributing towards 41% of the self-employed sector (2018), it is clear freelancing as a career has been on the rise. However, with growth comes difficulties and with the great B(rexit) word on the horizon and increased freelancer demands for a work-life balance, we are asking the question, are the freelancers in danger? p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; color: #000000} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; color: #000000; min-height: 14.0px} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} Trouble on the horizon? The B-word p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Arial; color: #000000} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Arial; color: #000000; min-height: 12.0px} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} span.s2 {text-decoration: underline ; font-kerning: none; color: #1155cc} We are sure you have heard enough about the dreaded B(rexit) word, and regardless of which side of the fence you stand, it is undeniable that it is taking over our lives and contributing towards stress. For freelancers, political indecisiveness has contributed towards greater levels of uncertainty and pessimism surrounding the stability of the self-employed sector. Reports indicate nearly half of self-employed workers believe Brexit will have a negative effect on their business, with younger workers holding greater levels of concern than older counterparts. These figures are troubling for Freelancers for whom, levels of growth across the sector may stagnate in favour for more permanent or part-time roles. Though only speculation, the industry has already been hit by a 67% slump in sales for UK freelancers based in the EU, sparking concerns regarding the sector's stability in a post-Brexit environment. However though across the EU the role of UK freelancers appears in question, domestically the picture is less glum. Recent reports from The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, highlight creative industry employment is growing as fast as the UK economy, with a 1.6% increase on 2018 figures, positively boosting opportunities in Marketing, Visual Arts and Computer Services countrywide. The Midlands comes out top, followed by East Anglia and the North East and North West regions - meaning freelancers can hold confidence in the home market and the opportunities it provides for the immediate period. p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Arial; color: #000000} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} We want it all! p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Arial; color: #000000} p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Arial; color: #000000; min-height: 12.0px} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} span.s2 {text-decoration: underline ; font-kerning: none; color: #1155cc} It comes as no surprise the desire to work as a freelancer stems from the wish to escape the 9-5 career in favour for flexibility in employment. However even here, significant developments are emerging, with freelancers globally demonstrating more favourability towards earning less money in favour for longer-term work, a consistent paycheck and holiday benefits. As industry competition is intensifying whilst creative industries grow, the ability for firms to recognise and adapt to candidate expectations is pivotal now more than ever in order to ensure the continued attraction of freelancers in an ever changing market. It is evident the freelance industry is undergoing a significant period of change and development. Though Brexit uncertainty holds the potential to dampen corporate investment, if firms are willing to be adaptable to changing market dynamics, adapting their processes to suit market conditions and candidate needs, the outlook of the freelance industry appears positive for the immediate term. p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Arial; color: #000000} span.s1 {font-kerning: none} span.s2 {text-decoration: underline ; font-kerning: none; color: #1155cc} Looking to enter a freelance role or require coverage? Our dedicated Temp & Contract team are able to support all roles across marketing, commercial and FMCG sectors. Whether, maternity cover, fixed contract or last-minute support for a few days, we have a vast network of clients and skilled contractors across the UK with key talent based in Birmingham and Manchester. Visit us today. Image Credit: Header: Beige wooden desk by Proxyclick Visitor Management System https://www.pexels.com/photo/beige-wooden-desk-2451568/ Image 1: Macbook Pro on Brown Wooden Table by Andrew Neel https://www.pexels.com/photo/macbook-pro-on-brown-wooden-table-2312369/
about 1 year ago
By Laura Hoy
May Day, May Day!
With yet another Bank Holiday upon us; the market noticeably picking up and the summer holiday season quickly approaching (I swear it was Christmas last week!) the Temp team here at Pitch thought we would write a blog to see where we can support you in the upcoming months. As always, we are here to provide assistance with any freelance needs you may have across marketing, creative, digital and PR. Whether you need a few days of support in your studio; a couple of weeks to cover holidays in your clients services department; or a longer term booking for that big digital project you have just pitched for, just let us know. Our dedicated Temp team have a great database of the most talented freelancers, ready to connect to you! The last few months There seems to be varying opinions on the trends experienced in the last few months so we thought we would collate a few key trends that our network of clients and candidates have noticed over the last quarter. We are always keen to understand different view points, so if you agree or disagree with our points, we’d love to have a chat to understand your experiences! Skill sets in demand: As always, we have seen an increasing demand for developers across all stacks but have noticed in particular, the emergence of new technologies as well as more specialised projects such as salesforce developers. Length of Contracts: Whilst a day or two in a studio has always been in demand, we have seen an increase in clients keeping contractors past their end date or even extending permanent offers to candidates. Remote working: With remote and flexible working always a hot topic within permanent recruitment, we have found an increasing number of freelancers looking for a flexible working arrangement as part of their next bookings - this has been particularly prominent within more technical skills sets. What's new at Pitch? We are currently working behind the scenes towards integrating a new system which should mean you will have instant access to the availability of your favourite freelancers; be able to track the details of candidates you have received and your feedback; as well effortlessly managing any freelance resource you may need. We’re really keen to introduce this as we anticipate it will be an amazing tool for streamlining freelance recruitment. So, do let us know if this is something you would like to trial with us.
May Day, May Day!
With yet another Bank Holiday upon us; the market noticeably picking up and the summer holiday season quickly approaching (I swear it was Christmas last week!) the Temp team here at Pitch thought we would write a blog to see where we can support you in the upcoming months. As always, we are here to provide assistance with any freelance needs you may have across marketing, creative, digital and PR. Whether you need a few days of support in your studio; a couple of weeks to cover holidays in your clients services department; or a longer term booking for that big digital project you have just pitched for, just let us know. Our dedicated Temp team have a great database of the most talented freelancers, ready to connect to you! The last few months There seems to be varying opinions on the trends experienced in the last few months so we thought we would collate a few key trends that our network of clients and candidates have noticed over the last quarter. We are always keen to understand different view points, so if you agree or disagree with our points, we’d love to have a chat to understand your experiences! Skill sets in demand: As always, we have seen an increasing demand for developers across all stacks but have noticed in particular, the emergence of new technologies as well as more specialised projects such as salesforce developers. Length of Contracts: Whilst a day or two in a studio has always been in demand, we have seen an increase in clients keeping contractors past their end date or even extending permanent offers to candidates. Remote working: With remote and flexible working always a hot topic within permanent recruitment, we have found an increasing number of freelancers looking for a flexible working arrangement as part of their next bookings - this has been particularly prominent within more technical skills sets. What's new at Pitch? We are currently working behind the scenes towards integrating a new system which should mean you will have instant access to the availability of your favourite freelancers; be able to track the details of candidates you have received and your feedback; as well effortlessly managing any freelance resource you may need. We’re really keen to introduce this as we anticipate it will be an amazing tool for streamlining freelance recruitment. So, do let us know if this is something you would like to trial with us.
over 1 year ago
By Ellie Tibbs
#FreelanceLife | Episode 17 | Sarah
Freelance Life has returned with a vengeance. This episode is all about Sarah, a fabulous Digital Content Strategist. 1. What is your favourite thing about being a Freelancer? Without a doubt, my favourite thing about being a freelancer is the freedom to pursue a direction that reflects my values! I have had a varied agency life, working with a broad spectrum of clients and industries. Being freelance has allowed me to collaborate with brands that sit closer to my heart. These are generally companies that have a positive agenda for the environment, health and wellness or social impact. 2. What is your least favourite thing about being a Freelancer? Funnily enough, that freedom that I love can be a double-edged sword. Being 100% self-reliant has its downsides too. It is only me that will bring in new business, me to do my taxes and me that has to work on developing my processes and skills. No one can cover my sick days so sometimes you have to suck it up and get on with it. However, this extreme career independence has taught me so much, and I wouldn’t change it for the world! 3. What skills are essential for a Freelancer? Self-motivation for those days when you just don’t feel like working on that project. You will have them even when you love the work you do! Understanding your limits and how to look after yourself, so you don’t burn out. Giving myself space by way of a walk with my dog Harry or a yoga class is not only a much-needed break it also sparks my creativity and has become a big part of my approach to my work day. Self-development is key. As a freelancer, you are unlikely to have someone else pushing you to develop your career skills so you must make time to continue to learn. It might be a photoshop refresher course, listening to an innovative, industry-relevant podcast or attending a group workshop. However, you like to learn, make space for it, otherwise, time will pass, and before you know it, you will be lagging behind on industry innovations. 4. On average, what time do you start and finish work? What does your day map out? Before my work day starts, I try and get to a yoga class or do a run or energise my body in some way ( it could just be dancing in the kitchen to Kisstory). A cup of organic green energy tea and some maca porridge for energy usually has me ready to go by 8.30/9am. I’ve never been a morning person, but I’m continually working on improving my morning routine. I don’t always get it right! I set my work schedule in detail a week beforehand. Then at the end of each day, I evaluate what's done. I also re-evaluate this depending on my emails or client requests. I try and stay true to my plan as much as possible as it can be too easy to go off track and before you know it you've fallen behind on projects. I take a mid-morning break to have a little stretch… or more likely a snack. My lunch break is generally at 1ish, and I’ll prepare/cook my lunch. Depending on my mood I’ll nip to the shops to get myself out or a little naughtily I might catch up on whatever my recent Netflix obsession is. I try and check my emails only twice a day as these can really easily lead you astray and take away from your project time. So once in the morning and then again just after lunch. If there is an emergency my clients will call me. If I’m dog sitting, I take a mid-afternoon break and take Harry for a walk through the fields. If I’m not, I usually put some tunes on and get myself away from my desk for ten mins, grab myself a herbal tea. Almost all my breaks revolve around getting snacks and food!!! Tasty treats easily incentivise me! I try and end my day at 6 pm with a plan for the next day if my work has gone well! If not my work can push a little more into the evening. I try not to do this too often as I left agency life for all that nonsense. Late nights have to happen sometimes, but if it becomes a habit it reflects terrible time management and will impact the quality of your work! 5. How often do you work remotely? Most days I work remotely, and I have been able to work well remotely with teams by discovering the right online tools and processes. If I’m copywriting, I can get my head down and not speak to anyone (workwise) for days. When I work with teams remotely tools like Slack, Basecamp and Google Meet are integral to feeling part of something and ensuring communication is not lost. Culture is a pretty hard one to create in remote teams, but it's certainly not impossible. I run face to face collaborative labs with my clients and love collaborating with teams in real life. I think I need that… I always fear that I’ll lose my social skills if I’ve worked remotely for too long! 6. What do you wish someone had told you when you were starting out? Find your niche. Don’t be everything to everyone. Also, be what you want, not what people expect of you. 7. Would you ever consider going for a permanent position? I never say never, and I know if an unmissable opportunity came along I would always consider it. It would have to be something extraordinary, something that I could genuinely commit to. For me the company would have to be; Aligned with my values with ethics and sustainability Encourage skills development Emphasis on health and wellness in the workplace Great culture and team Opportunity for travel Super creative Opportunity for progression Flexible to my life Challenging and diverse!! 8. What is the most standout memory from your Freelance Career? (Whether it brings, elation, anger, humour, sadness). Waking up one morning, being asked if I can board a plane in 2 hours to Ibiza to run a photoshoot and being able to say yes. 9. What song best represents your Freelance state of mind? Metal, Hip Hop, Classical? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwWDreDlZRc\ Ellie T is our freelance extraordinaire here at Pitch. Get in touch with her today for new openings.
#FreelanceLife | Episode 17 | Sarah
Freelance Life has returned with a vengeance. This episode is all about Sarah, a fabulous Digital Content Strategist. 1. What is your favourite thing about being a Freelancer? Without a doubt, my favourite thing about being a freelancer is the freedom to pursue a direction that reflects my values! I have had a varied agency life, working with a broad spectrum of clients and industries. Being freelance has allowed me to collaborate with brands that sit closer to my heart. These are generally companies that have a positive agenda for the environment, health and wellness or social impact. 2. What is your least favourite thing about being a Freelancer? Funnily enough, that freedom that I love can be a double-edged sword. Being 100% self-reliant has its downsides too. It is only me that will bring in new business, me to do my taxes and me that has to work on developing my processes and skills. No one can cover my sick days so sometimes you have to suck it up and get on with it. However, this extreme career independence has taught me so much, and I wouldn’t change it for the world! 3. What skills are essential for a Freelancer? Self-motivation for those days when you just don’t feel like working on that project. You will have them even when you love the work you do! Understanding your limits and how to look after yourself, so you don’t burn out. Giving myself space by way of a walk with my dog Harry or a yoga class is not only a much-needed break it also sparks my creativity and has become a big part of my approach to my work day. Self-development is key. As a freelancer, you are unlikely to have someone else pushing you to develop your career skills so you must make time to continue to learn. It might be a photoshop refresher course, listening to an innovative, industry-relevant podcast or attending a group workshop. However, you like to learn, make space for it, otherwise, time will pass, and before you know it, you will be lagging behind on industry innovations. 4. On average, what time do you start and finish work? What does your day map out? Before my work day starts, I try and get to a yoga class or do a run or energise my body in some way ( it could just be dancing in the kitchen to Kisstory). A cup of organic green energy tea and some maca porridge for energy usually has me ready to go by 8.30/9am. I’ve never been a morning person, but I’m continually working on improving my morning routine. I don’t always get it right! I set my work schedule in detail a week beforehand. Then at the end of each day, I evaluate what's done. I also re-evaluate this depending on my emails or client requests. I try and stay true to my plan as much as possible as it can be too easy to go off track and before you know it you've fallen behind on projects. I take a mid-morning break to have a little stretch… or more likely a snack. My lunch break is generally at 1ish, and I’ll prepare/cook my lunch. Depending on my mood I’ll nip to the shops to get myself out or a little naughtily I might catch up on whatever my recent Netflix obsession is. I try and check my emails only twice a day as these can really easily lead you astray and take away from your project time. So once in the morning and then again just after lunch. If there is an emergency my clients will call me. If I’m dog sitting, I take a mid-afternoon break and take Harry for a walk through the fields. If I’m not, I usually put some tunes on and get myself away from my desk for ten mins, grab myself a herbal tea. Almost all my breaks revolve around getting snacks and food!!! Tasty treats easily incentivise me! I try and end my day at 6 pm with a plan for the next day if my work has gone well! If not my work can push a little more into the evening. I try not to do this too often as I left agency life for all that nonsense. Late nights have to happen sometimes, but if it becomes a habit it reflects terrible time management and will impact the quality of your work! 5. How often do you work remotely? Most days I work remotely, and I have been able to work well remotely with teams by discovering the right online tools and processes. If I’m copywriting, I can get my head down and not speak to anyone (workwise) for days. When I work with teams remotely tools like Slack, Basecamp and Google Meet are integral to feeling part of something and ensuring communication is not lost. Culture is a pretty hard one to create in remote teams, but it's certainly not impossible. I run face to face collaborative labs with my clients and love collaborating with teams in real life. I think I need that… I always fear that I’ll lose my social skills if I’ve worked remotely for too long! 6. What do you wish someone had told you when you were starting out? Find your niche. Don’t be everything to everyone. Also, be what you want, not what people expect of you. 7. Would you ever consider going for a permanent position? I never say never, and I know if an unmissable opportunity came along I would always consider it. It would have to be something extraordinary, something that I could genuinely commit to. For me the company would have to be; Aligned with my values with ethics and sustainability Encourage skills development Emphasis on health and wellness in the workplace Great culture and team Opportunity for travel Super creative Opportunity for progression Flexible to my life Challenging and diverse!! 8. What is the most standout memory from your Freelance Career? (Whether it brings, elation, anger, humour, sadness). Waking up one morning, being asked if I can board a plane in 2 hours to Ibiza to run a photoshoot and being able to say yes. 9. What song best represents your Freelance state of mind? Metal, Hip Hop, Classical? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwWDreDlZRc\ Ellie T is our freelance extraordinaire here at Pitch. Get in touch with her today for new openings.
over 1 year ago
By Ellie Tibbs
Get The Best Out Of Remote Working
We're now seeing more and more opportunities for remote working in freelance contracts. For some people, they love the opportunity to work from home and technology today enables you to work as efficiently as you would if you were in the office, with clients based anywhere in the world. With the use of online communication tools like email, Skype, Slack, WeTransfer and Dropbox (to name just a few), you’re able to liaise with your team, clients and share the work you’ve done in an instance – but is it as simple as that? You can get out of bed and walk a few paces and be at your desk, but your working environment is everything. Working from your bed isn’t productive! You need to be comfortable and be able to work as efficiently as you can and trust me, lying down is not the one. Let’s not even get into thinking about posture! Give yourself a spacious area that you can set up your computer/laptop, have your phone at easy reach and be able to make notes. This can be a desk in your home, your own home office or even a space you rent away from your home. Ultimately, you’ll know what works for you. Give yourself breaks It’s easy when working remotely to forget to give yourself breaks to allow yourself time to step away from work. By doing so you may not give yourself the necessary break which can allow you to then reflect on the work you’ve done and add something more valuable or take out something that just doesn’t work. Breaks will also reduce tiredness and fatigue which will ultimately affect your performance. Just like you would at the office, allow yourself 1 hour in the middle of the day to get away from those screens of yours, get some fresh air, collect your thoughts and go again. Have a structure You’re your own boss so you’ll be used this, but it’s essential to plan your day. What do you have to do that day – what needs to be achieved? Setting daily tasks will enable you to perform efficiently and be able to get vital tasks done so that you deliver your work on time. Go on-site every once in a while So your client allows remote working, but working on site every once in a while speaks volumes about you as an employee. It puts a real person to the “freelancer/contractor/remote worker” – I guarantee that your client will respect you and remember you more than if you have never worked onsite. You need to be amenable to the people you’re working for. I get asked for remote workers to be onsite at the beginning of a contract so that they can meet the team, put a face to the name and brief you on the task in hand. You may also get asked to attend onsite meetings and possibly even staff social events! Remote working is brilliant, but don’t isolate yourself. Who knows, you could meet someone who might think of you for a future project – It’s basically networking. Invest in your tools If you’re thinking of working remotely and your role involves sharing sizeable files, then it will be worth investing in some super-fast broadband. You don’t want to be sharing your work with your client or even their clients and the file takes 11 hours to upload and download. Everything needs to be slick, and seamless – don’t allow your client to doubt the remote working! And on that note, it’s worth having a fast working laptop/computer – any defective equipment will cause you stress. Be contactable Most importantly, you need to be contactable during your standard working hours. Just because you’re working remotely doesn’t mean you don’t have to answer work emails or answer calls from your team or line manager. Remote working benefits you as a contractor but you’re offering a service to your client, and if you’re not on the end of the phone then why would they come back to you for their next project? Don’t allow people to think that remote workers don’t work as hard as those who are onsite, excel and prove yourself so that no one can doubt your working ability. Also, it’s best to remember that this is freelance, if you don’t perform the tasks required of you, on time and don’t work as efficiently then they can end the contract in an instance. With all that said, working as a freelancer does have so many benefits. Most of the freelancers I place would never go back to working in-house or agency side because they love their freedom so much. Are you already a freelancer or thinking of going freelance? Pitch can help. Get in touch with me today to find out more.
Get The Best Out Of Remote Working
We're now seeing more and more opportunities for remote working in freelance contracts. For some people, they love the opportunity to work from home and technology today enables you to work as efficiently as you would if you were in the office, with clients based anywhere in the world. With the use of online communication tools like email, Skype, Slack, WeTransfer and Dropbox (to name just a few), you’re able to liaise with your team, clients and share the work you’ve done in an instance – but is it as simple as that? You can get out of bed and walk a few paces and be at your desk, but your working environment is everything. Working from your bed isn’t productive! You need to be comfortable and be able to work as efficiently as you can and trust me, lying down is not the one. Let’s not even get into thinking about posture! Give yourself a spacious area that you can set up your computer/laptop, have your phone at easy reach and be able to make notes. This can be a desk in your home, your own home office or even a space you rent away from your home. Ultimately, you’ll know what works for you. Give yourself breaks It’s easy when working remotely to forget to give yourself breaks to allow yourself time to step away from work. By doing so you may not give yourself the necessary break which can allow you to then reflect on the work you’ve done and add something more valuable or take out something that just doesn’t work. Breaks will also reduce tiredness and fatigue which will ultimately affect your performance. Just like you would at the office, allow yourself 1 hour in the middle of the day to get away from those screens of yours, get some fresh air, collect your thoughts and go again. Have a structure You’re your own boss so you’ll be used this, but it’s essential to plan your day. What do you have to do that day – what needs to be achieved? Setting daily tasks will enable you to perform efficiently and be able to get vital tasks done so that you deliver your work on time. Go on-site every once in a while So your client allows remote working, but working on site every once in a while speaks volumes about you as an employee. It puts a real person to the “freelancer/contractor/remote worker” – I guarantee that your client will respect you and remember you more than if you have never worked onsite. You need to be amenable to the people you’re working for. I get asked for remote workers to be onsite at the beginning of a contract so that they can meet the team, put a face to the name and brief you on the task in hand. You may also get asked to attend onsite meetings and possibly even staff social events! Remote working is brilliant, but don’t isolate yourself. Who knows, you could meet someone who might think of you for a future project – It’s basically networking. Invest in your tools If you’re thinking of working remotely and your role involves sharing sizeable files, then it will be worth investing in some super-fast broadband. You don’t want to be sharing your work with your client or even their clients and the file takes 11 hours to upload and download. Everything needs to be slick, and seamless – don’t allow your client to doubt the remote working! And on that note, it’s worth having a fast working laptop/computer – any defective equipment will cause you stress. Be contactable Most importantly, you need to be contactable during your standard working hours. Just because you’re working remotely doesn’t mean you don’t have to answer work emails or answer calls from your team or line manager. Remote working benefits you as a contractor but you’re offering a service to your client, and if you’re not on the end of the phone then why would they come back to you for their next project? Don’t allow people to think that remote workers don’t work as hard as those who are onsite, excel and prove yourself so that no one can doubt your working ability. Also, it’s best to remember that this is freelance, if you don’t perform the tasks required of you, on time and don’t work as efficiently then they can end the contract in an instance. With all that said, working as a freelancer does have so many benefits. Most of the freelancers I place would never go back to working in-house or agency side because they love their freedom so much. Are you already a freelancer or thinking of going freelance? Pitch can help. Get in touch with me today to find out more.
