Freelancers are indispensable for short-term projects, expert roles and startups making it an important point on how to become a freelancer and why you should hire one. Let's learn how and why freelancers decide to go into the independence and what you need to know to engage with them.
In this episode, we delve into the unique world of freelancing in the tech industry with Judith, a full-stack software engineer with over 6 years of experience. After working for various companies, from startups to large corporations, Judith made the bold decision to transition into freelancing. Now, as a freelance software engineer and consultant, she helps companies ship amazing products while creating tech content and striving for a balanced approach to working in tech.
Judith shares her journey, explaining what motivated her shift from full-time employment to freelancing. Growing up in a working-class family, Judith's experience shaped her desire for more freedom and independence. She reveals the key differences between freelancing and being a full-time employee, especially within the German market. Freelancers work with greater autonomy, choosing when and how to complete tasks, free from the rigid rules of employment—no more permission for vacations or fixed schedules.
We explore the concept of goal completion vs. time for money, where freelancers focus on achieving outcomes rather than clocking hours. Judith explains what a successful goal looks like for a freelancer and how it differs from typical employee expectations. For freelancers, it’s about delivering results without strict supervision or detailed instructions.
We also tackle the challenges of pseudo self-employment ("Scheinselbstständigkeit")—a hot topic in the freelancing world—and what it means to work closely with companies while maintaining independence.
Want to become a freelancer? Judith breaks down the essentials: from taxes and health insurance to crafting a sustainable business model. She offers practical tips for building your freelance career and shares her insights into the current freelance market.
But why should companies hire freelancers? Judith highlights the various scenarios where freelancers are invaluable, such as short-term projects, specialized expertise, peak workloads, or when startups can't afford the risks of hiring full-time employees. Freelancers provide flexibility and fresh perspectives, which can be critical in fast-paced tech environments.
Finally, Judith shares her thoughts on the evolving freelance landscape and what’s next for the industry. Whether you're considering freelancing or looking to hire a freelancer, this episode offers an in-depth look at the benefits, challenges, and realities of life as a self-employed tech professional.
