Independent Working is the New Wave 🌊 — Here's Why

During the pandemic, the world halted and nearly everyone had to pivot the way they lived their day-to-day lives. Some were able to keep their jobs, and the ones that lost their jobs had to find a way to get by. At COVID-19's peak, the world saw a range of older generations turning to the internet to familiarize themselves with social media to not only learn more about the state of the world, but to also experience what it's like to have a job that isn't... traditional. 🧐

According to Pew Research, over 70% of Americans started to work remotely during the pandemic, and 50% would like to work from home even when the pandemic is over. While some people are embracing the power of the internet, "...not all employed adults have the option of working from home, even during a pandemic." (Pew, 2020)

To some, working independently isn't as secure as their traditional 9 to 5 — with possible income fluctuations and lack of traditional benefits (like healthcare), it can be worrisome. But when done right (and with the help of the internet), an independent's career is able to blossom and flourish more than they'd ever expect.

People usually envision someone who is able to work alone when they hear the word independent. But when it comes to the future of remote working, the word independent has coined itself an entirely different meaning.

Working independently means working outside of the box from the traditional 9 to 5. Rather than work for someone, an independent works for themselves with 100% autonomy. They are able to make administrative decisions, choose their own path, and pivot whenever they please. Independents have the opportunity to explore different career paths and carve their own role from wherever they are, whenever they'd like.

Independents aren't working alone entirely— they're able to work in co-working spaces, and they have the world wide web to keep in touch with! With the rise of online communities, the opportunities to connect and collaborate are endless. 🤝

Independents are working everywhere, and chances are, you probably know someone who works independently.

Working independently isn't limited to social media marketing— it can be as simple as a client looking for an independent to complete a desired service. Whether it be proofreading, brand design, or something outside of the internet, there's always an opportunity for everyone.

It's a common misconception that in order to work independently, there needs to be a ✨fancy desk setup✨ and 💸 expensive equipment 💸 but that's hardly the case.

Whether it be on a phone or a computer screen, at home, library, or coffee shop, there's always a way to get the work done without breaking the bank.

🕹 Contra's Favorite Tech Gear (more coming soon!)

When there are negatives, there are positives, and there are so many benefits to working as an independent. Here are a few key things to note: 👇

The traditional 9-5 doesn't work for everybody! Depending on your life schedule, you can choose and experiment with which times work best for you.

In The State of Independence report, over 86% of independents surveyed work less than 40 hours per week, and 40% of independents work less than 30 hours per week. Work probably doesn't even feel like work with all of the flexibility that comes with working independently. 🧙‍♀️

Have you ever been stuck with someone that didn't align with your wants, needs, or values? No fear, independent work is here! More and more independents are choosing projects that they closely align with, asking themselves if they enjoyed the process, and if they'd want to do it over and over again (The State of Independence, 2021).

You have every right to turn down a client if the project doesn't align with you.

Everyone's definition of working independently is different, but follows the same ideology— you can work when you want, wherever you want outside of the corporate standard. 💪

Working independently doesn't have to be complicated! It is constantly molding to you and your work ethic— no matter your experience. Here are some steps you can take to start your independent journey! 👇

Is it the freedom to work from wherever you please, or is it the ability to work with different clients for a period of time? This can be different for everyone!

There are even deeper categories within your interests (ex. Design → Product Design → Dashboard Design)! Explore your interests, try them out, and see what works best for you.

The easiest way to motivate yourself to start working independently is by following people who are similar to you! Whether it be their personality or similarities in interests, it's handy to get to know the people who are in the same field as you. Here are some of our favorite online communities.

More and more companies are ditching the resume, and are taking peeks at portfolios to gauge a person's work experience. You don't have to be a developer and code your own website— you can get creative and put your own spin on how you showcase your portfolio on social media platforms, Notion, or Contra! Remember to always include a description, notable assets, and your role on the project. 🚀

Contra is the new professional community that allows you to work the way you want with zero commission fees. We give you all the tools needed to create your ideal flexible career. ✨

Utilize Contra to showcase your favorite projects, find opportunities, receive payments (soon!), and build your community. To learn more about us, visit our Mission page!

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