Tips for Self Employment in Tech
Freelance coders and programmers are self-employed, meaning they pay their own taxes, choose their own clients, set their own hours and manage their own workspace. As a freelance programmer, you can write code for websites, software, mobile apps and any other type of computing application.
While self-employment has both benefits and challenges, if you enjoy working autonomously and don't mind handling pertinent business duties as needed, you may enjoy being a self-employed programmer. Use your analytical skills to research how to operate as a sole proprietor or independent contractor to prepare a plan for success.
Most programmers generally work alone and can write code from anywhere, so transitioning to working from home or as an on-site contractor likely isn't a difficult transition. However, you do need to consistently secure work to succeed as a self-employed programmer.
Below is a list of how to be self employed as a programmer.
1.) Create online profiles at freelance job sites such as Elance.com, oDesk.com and Guru.com. Highlight your experience, list all programming languages you are proficient in, and make note of any certifications or specialization you may have. Search for and bid on projects that suit your background and meet your standards.
2.) Search employment websites including Monster.com and ComputerWork.com, filtering your results to only include contract positions. Narrow results down further by searching for telecommuting positions. Craiglist.org may also be worthwhile checking out.
3.) Contact niche employment agencies that cater to computer-related professionals, and let them know that you're a self-employed programmer. Robert Half Technology is one such agency that places IT specialists in temporary, permanent and contract positions for which they are qualified.
4.) Attend networking events to socially and professionally connect with others in how they make money.
5.) Hone your skills and seek ways to continue your education.
6.) Consider learning new programming languages, depending on the current demand. Active professional development may make you a more attractive candidate and increase your value as a programmer.
7.) Join a professional organization.
8.) Market analysis, online courses and books, as well as discounts on certification guides and conference registration fees.
9.) Ask other self-employed programmers and related professionals
Hear from or amazing Alumni via our Success Stories website:
Fabian - From a Dead-End Job, to Software Engineer at Amazon Web Services
Rozy - From No Tech Experience To Remote Software Engineer
Meri - U.S. Marine Veteran to Software Engineer at Amazon Web Services
Lia - US Navy Veteran to Software Engineer at Booz Allen
Chris - From learning to code at Sabio, to Tech Consultant at Booz Allen
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