The Basics of Freelancing on the Go
Posted November 5, 2009 in Business, Lifestyle 37 Comments »
If you’re trying to live the freelance dream, chances are that you answered “yes” to the previous question, or are at least thinking about it.
The old stereotype of the freelancer who works alone in his or her home office is changing. The image is being replaced by a newer, more mobile freelancer.
In this post we examine the growing trend of “freelancing on the go” and the essential tools that make it possible. Read on to find out just how easy it is to become a mobile freelancer.
What Is Mobile Freelancing?
For a large number of freelancers the high cost of commuting is no longer an issue. Today’s technology has provided an unprecedented opportunity for many freelancers to take their work nearly anywhere. Even very small, rural communities now offer powerful Internet connections and WiFi hotspots.
In fact, a few freelancers have decided to forgo a permanent location altogether, in favor of a nomadic freelancing lifestyle. Other freelancers maintain a more permanent base, but enjoy the flexibility of being able to travel whenever they want to.
Not everyone understands the mobile freelancing trend, though.
The Experts are Wrong
Recently I read an article written by a so-called real estate guru projecting that most people would move to cities and urban centers within the next ten years in order to save money on the high cost of commuting (based on the increasing cost of gasoline).
This self-proclaimed guru was envisioning the growth of urban centers all based on the need to limit commuting. The expert author’s rationale completely ignored the growing trend of the self-employed (including myself and many of our Freelance Folder readers), who are now (or have the potential to be) completely location independent.
Let’s take a look at the essentials that make the mobile freelancing trend possible.
Mobile Freelancing Essentials
To effectively freelance on the go it is important to have the right tools. Here are some essentials for mobile freelancers:
- A fast and reliable Internet connection. Finding a fast and reliable Internet connection while traveling used to be difficult. However, fast Internet is quickly becoming the norm rather than the exception. Even some fast food restaurants are now offering WiFi Internet to their patrons. There are, however, still some places without Internet. If you aren’t sure if there will be Internet available where you are going, ask before you go.
- Mobile computing equipment. A laptop used to be the only real option for the freelancer on the go. However, today’s mobile freelancer may be able to get by with a Netbook and even a smartphone like an iPhone or a Blackberry, which has the ability to go online.
- Ability to access WiFi. Most laptops and netbooks are already configured to find and access wireless internet, but older models may not be. Also, while some locations offer complimentary WiFi access, be aware that these free connections are generally less secure than a connection that you pay for. If you are going to travel a lot, it may be wise to invest in a data plan.
- Virus check and security software. Make sure that your computer equipment is protected with virus checking software. NEVER log on to a sensitive account (your bank account, for example) from a public computer unless you are absolutely certain that your password information will not be accessible to the next user.
- A permanent online location. You may be traveling, but your contact information shouldn’t be. Make sure that you have a reliable email address where perspective clients can reach you. Check your email frequently.
Is This You?
Are you a mobile freelancer?
If so, what freelancing challenges have you faced as a result of your mobility? What benefits have you found?
Share your experiences, ideas, and tips in the comments
Image from novecentino
About the author: Laura Spencer is a freelance writer from North Central Texas with over 19 years of professional business writing experience. If you liked this post, then you may also enjoy Laura’s blog about her freelance writing experiences, WritingThoughts
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37 Comments
Sharon Hurley Hall
November 5th, 2009 at 11:49 amYou’ve definitely got the essentials right, Laura. Connecting to the internet can be a big challenge. Someone I know recommended a Wi-Fi range extender to give more options for connection wherever you are.
One of the things I have found most useful as a mobile freelancer is backing up information in the cloud. That means I can pack and go at a moment’s notice without worrying that I’ll forget an essential file. I have tried ADrive, SpiderOak, MozyBackup and Syncplicity and Syncplicity is my favorite for that.
Laura Spencer
November 5th, 2009 at 11:53 amThanks Sharon!
You’re right about connecting to the Internet being a challenge. In some places it is everywhere, but I met someone from South America last week who let me know that 70% of his country does not have Internet.
Kenyan Freelancer
November 5th, 2009 at 12:07 pmAhh…the beauty of freelancing is the ability to up and go, and still get to talk to your clients, work on your projects and enjoy life. This is becoming a reality here in Kenya as more and more cafes are offering wifi hotspots (http://www.computerworld.co.ke/articles/2009/08/25/where-find-free-wi-fi-hotspots-nairobi). There is also the option of broadband modems and smartphones that are widely available. Freelancing is the same the world over. Great post, Laura.
Luke Jones
November 5th, 2009 at 12:11 pmThis is something I’d like to work towards but it’s not something that is massive in the United Kingdom at the moment, particularly in my area.
I might be wrong, but a lot of these ‘mobile’ freelancers aren’t based in the West Midlands, we’re a pretty static bunch; I think mainly because getting a good internet connection is hard. Most of the towns around here are on either end of the spectrum, either really busy or really quiet and bland. That’s not the freelancing dream.
One day, I want to be sat with my, hopefully by then, wife on a beach with a laptop doing some work. That would be perfect.
Bill Medifast
November 5th, 2009 at 12:22 pmThe joys of having one of those USB wireless internet connections. My Internet goes with me everywhere I go and I don’t even get charged roaming when I leave the country. I am always on the road, including right now and rely 100% on mobility. It seems I work in a new place everyday and would be lost without an Internet connection.
Freelancing on the go is a true bliss. If I couldn’t do it I’d be tied to my desk every single day and that just won’t fly with me.
Thanks for the excellent post. Love hearing about other peoples methods for freelancing on the go, especially since everyone now a days is always on the go with their fancy little laptops and endless amounts of technology. I upgraded to a Netbook specifically for my travels, so much lighter and shockingly enough… faster!
Laura Spencer
November 5th, 2009 at 12:32 pmWow!
There seems to be a lot of interest in this topic already.
I think this is a growing trend that is more prevalent in some places than in others. I look for it to continue to grow.
Keep the comments coming! :-)
Amber Weinberg
November 5th, 2009 at 12:39 pmVery true. I know of a few freelancers who actually worked while they travel the world! (I’m very jealous!) I see more and more jobs moving to telecommute positions, especially as gas prices rise and as perks in the recession. More full-time jobs are even offering 3 days in office and 2 days at home.
In the industrial age, more people moved from the suburbs to the city to be closer to work, I think in the mobile age, more people are going to move away from the city and back to the country ;)
tbmedia
November 5th, 2009 at 12:57 pmmobile working is definitely the way forward, even if it’s just picking up the laptop and working in the garden on a nice day! Sadly I am still tied to the city life for various reasons but I’d love to live out in the country or by the sea.
Keep dreaming the dream, some day….
Ryan Brandle
November 5th, 2009 at 1:31 pmLaura, I would absolutely say this is a topic of interest. Thank you everyone for your comments. It’s great to get a discussion going about the world of freelancing and travel. These are my two passions and I would love to talk more about it!
Laura Spencer
November 5th, 2009 at 1:37 pmRyan,
Thanks for stopping by! I’d love to hear more of your thoughts on the topic.
Are you already a mobile freelancer? You’re welcome to share your experiences in the comments.
Elliott (Set Yourself Freelance)
November 5th, 2009 at 2:05 pmI love this article! I am a mobile freelancing to the utmost extreme!
I recently spent a year traveling around Australia with my laptop, picking up freelance work mostly out of Sydney to fund my lifestyle, and my travels.
Several years back, I spent a couple of years traveling around Asia, and funded a large percentage of my trip doing freelance design work mostly out of Bangkok.
I am probably more nomadic than most, and I love the freedom that freelancing gives me!
Michele | aka Raw Juice Girl
November 5th, 2009 at 2:39 pmInteresting article, Laura.
While I’m not a travel writer, I do face challenges being a freelancer. I have moved to an Amish farm with some family (no, we aren’t Amish). Before moving here, I had high-speed internet and life was a lot easier for sure!
A homesteading blog will launch soon where my family and I will share the ups and downs of eco-friendly living on this Amish farm — including trying to freelance in the midst of all the chaos. (I’m sharing that because I get a lot of questions about freelancing from an Amish farm.)
One thing I’ve found extremely beneficial is a USB modem (I use Alltel, which was recently bought out by Verizon). This allows me to have a wonderful internet experience (way better than slow dial-up) and is my best option since high-speed internet services don’t reach my location. Of course, before investing in the USB modem, I often ventured out to a local coffee shop.
I don’t have a designated office space yet (we’re working on that) so it’s been chaotic trying to keep things straight. But, somehow, I’ve managed to never miss a deadline (except when I had 3 family deaths in a row and my editors/clients completely understood). So, looking back, it’s been hard, but also a neat learning experience! :-D
Ryan Brandle
November 5th, 2009 at 2:54 pmI am not as experienced as I would like to be. I uprooted and traveled the world for a year in 2006 but I did so to get away from work and everything familiar. Upon my return to a more “static” lifestyle in the US of A, my soul has craved finding a way to feel that kind of freedom again. So I would consider myself an aspiring mobile freelancer.
I do believe that time off/time out of an office is a necessary thing to live a healthy and satisfying life. Mobile freelancing gives you the option to decide how much you want to take.
I would love to hear some tips/comments about gaining and growing your freelance business while in a foreign country. Great comments, keep it up!
Kamal Hylton
November 5th, 2009 at 4:00 pmI am a mobile freelancer for sure, I think the biggest challenge for me is as mentioned before low wireless internet quality.
However, a benefit I have found is being able to leave the computer screen and get work done with just a pencil and paper. Sometimes we as freelancers need to simplify; we need to unplug, leave the office and find inspiration from the fresh new things around us.
Laura Spencer
November 5th, 2009 at 4:06 pmElliot, Michele, Ryan, and Kamal
Thanks for sharing your experiences. You all bring up valid points (and challenges).
I think that technology has created opportunities for this generation of workers that never existed in the past. Even a static freelancer has the opportunity to choose to live and work virtually from many different locations.
It will be interesting to see how this new freedom of location, which is really just beginning, affects the fabric of society in the next ten or fifteen years.
Keep sharing the experiences and tips for mobile freelancing…
Steve
November 5th, 2009 at 4:13 pmAwesome post! Keep up the superlative work!!!
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matt inertia
November 5th, 2009 at 4:14 pmIm hitting the road for 12 months backpacking round south america, in about 5 weeks! Yeah! Cant wait! I’ll be armed with my laptop and earning money as a freelance seo as i go. I feel so privileged that I can do something like it! Ten years ago it wouldnt have been possible. You’ve gotta love globalisation!
Laura, do you have any tips or experience of connection issues in south america?
Elliott (Set Yourself Freelance)
November 5th, 2009 at 4:16 pmThat’s awesome Matt… South America is on my list next. Have a great trip!
I love when technology actually gives us freedom instead of just enslaving us!
Laura Spencer
November 5th, 2009 at 4:19 pmHi Matt!
I haven’t been to South America myself. The person that I spoke with had been in Brazil and he mentioned connection difficulties. I think he was in some pretty remote places, though.
Maybe one of our readers can help provide more specific information. If in doubt, you may be able to ask the place where you are planning on staying.
Have Pack, Will Travel
November 5th, 2009 at 4:41 pmI recently spent some time in Argentina and found Internet EVERYWHERE in Buenos Aires. Nearly all coffee shops and small cafe’s offer it for free.
I even went down towards the southern tip to a small city called Ushuaia. It wasn’t as prevalent, but still very accessible.
Michael Guill
November 5th, 2009 at 5:03 pmYour list of essentials is spot-on. Even though working while traveling is not necessarily easy, it is very feasible if you can streamline your mobile office habits.
I’ve been mobile for quite a while now, and even though I have a couple of home bases, traveling is just part of life for me (I’m married to an Air Force officer).
One thing I would add is that I would be lost without online data storage and backup (like Dropbox or SugarSync or something of that nature).
Thanks for the excellent post!
Ben Weller
November 5th, 2009 at 5:42 pmI’d love to be a mobile freelancer, myself. Unfortunately the lack of 3G cell service in Vermont keeps me pretty well tethered to my home office’s desk.
Looking forward to future developments in wireless telecom, especially those that work over longer distances, and are better suited for rural areas!
Thanks for reminding me of where I want to be in my life… mobile!
-Ben
Aurora
November 6th, 2009 at 5:28 amHmm, nice concept, but here in South Africa with the huge crime rates, it’s a big no-no… :(
Find Business Development Jobs
November 6th, 2009 at 8:15 amFinding a good job can be pretty troublesome. Especially when you have high expectations.
Here are some tips that helped me land the job of my dreams:
* Plan out your CV, if you’ve never done a CV before, this is the time to learn.
* Think about all the jobs you are qualified for. This may lead to discovering additional jobs you could land.
* Look for jobs in every possible source : internet, newspaper, radio and other media. Ask your friends that have similar jobs if there may be an opening in their company.
* You need to be proactive about this. Don’t just email them, make sure to call the HR department to have them confirm your resume.
Finding a job is pretty much a job in itself and it’s all about how well can you market your abilities.
matt inertia
November 6th, 2009 at 11:20 amWHOOP WHOOP! SPAM ALERT FOR THE POST ABOVE: http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=%22Finding+a+good+job+can+be+pretty+troublesome.+Especially+when+you+have+high+expectations.%22!
Aurora – The beauty of what were discussing here is that you are not restricted to south afria, you can work from any in the world with (or within easy access of) an internet connection!
“The secret of happiness is freedom. The secret of freedom is courage.”
Stacy
November 7th, 2009 at 6:52 pmMost large cellular carriers sell USB or ExpressCard modems, but a phone can be used as well. If you have a cell phone that’s less than five years old, odds are that you can use it to connect to the internet in areas where your carrier has digital service. You just can’t be talking on the phone while accessing the internet in most cases.
Usually it requires a special data plan or feature. Talk to your carrier to find out whether you can get it and where.
Chris
November 7th, 2009 at 7:34 pmGood list, Laura. Also, Sprint and Verizon have started selling these little credit-card-sized devices that use a data plan and get you online just about anywhere. I think they’re called “personal hotspots.” They’re a little pricey right now and also have a cap of 5 GB of data transfer per month, but I can definitely see this becoming a massive boon to mobile freelancers in the next few years.
Heather Villa
November 8th, 2009 at 8:08 amDefinitely connecting to the internet. I found that most places with Wi-Fi don’t allow connection to many of the sites I need in order to work. Or they are so slow and unstable that I couldn’t work. After purchasing my own wi-fi through AT&T, my connection issues dropped dramatically. It’s nice not to have to worry about finding a place that has Wi-Fi as well.
Mahmud Ahsan
November 8th, 2009 at 3:02 pmInternet availability is the big challenge for mobile freelancing in my country.
Ms. Freeman
November 24th, 2009 at 9:19 pmIt is definitely my goal to be a mobile freelancer. I am still in the process of building my writing portfolio.
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Haralampos Papadopoulos
January 4th, 2010 at 8:29 amI’ve been a, what you’d say a nomad, for three years now,and I wouldn’t change it for the world, but here in Greece, it’s really hard (if not impossible) to create a name for yourself, and even charge your work properlly…
So now I’ve got an office, but at least it has a sea view, and the clients I’ve made along the way require my pressence so I get to travel a lot anyway,which has always been my ultimate inspiration.
Good luck to fellow travers
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