Over the years we’ve seen an increasing number of freelance professionals employed within the construction industry. In fact statistics now show that 42% of the construction industry workforce are freelance self-employed workers. From Site and Project Managers to Quantity Surveyors and Estimators, we’re increasingly seeing employers moving to this model.
If you’re considering becoming a freelancer in the construction industry then we’ve taken a look at the pros and cons:
PROS
Specialists Can Thrive
If you have specialist skills then you might have previously found that you struggled to find the right employed opportunity. However as a freelancer with the same skills, you might find yourself in demand! Recruiting a freelance Site Manager for example, allows an employer to look for someone with the right experience for that particular project, without having to worry about how they’ll flex their skills to the next job.
Higher Salary
With good experience to bring to the role, but without the standard benefits of paid holidays or a guaranteed monthly income, you can of course expect a higher salary. Work with a recruitment specialist or heavily research your market so you know what your experience is worth. Employers will expect you to have a day rate in mind so be sure to be prepared with a figure so you don’t end up asking for less than you’re worth.
Varied Projects
As a freelancer in the construction industry, you can enjoy the variety that comes from working on different projects. Not only does this give you variety day to day but it also gives you the chance to develop a wider range of skills.
Boosts Productivity
It’s also thought that working in this way boosts productivity. Perhaps it’s the lack of long term job security, the variety of work, or the higher salary which is shown to make people work better and harder, and enjoy more job satisfaction.
Enjoy Flexibility
Whether you want to take a career break to travel the world or raise a family, working as a freelancer in the industry offers you that flexibility. Depending on your circumstances you can accept projects whenever works for you, and be selective about the type of projects you choose to take on.
CONS
Lack of Job Security
One factor that puts many people off turning to a freelance career path is the lack of job security. If you have bills to pay it can be nerve-wracking to step away from a guaranteed monthly income. Before you decide to take a freelance role, weigh up the financial implications and how you’d cope if you did have a period without work.
Freelancers of course demand a higher salary typically than employed staff, making them the more expensive choice. However the big appeal for companies is the ability to flex their workforce according to their economic position.
Could be Pigeonholed
As a specialist, you do risk being pigeonholed. Instead of variety you could find that you simply get offered similar projects time after time. For example if you specialise in residential properties, you may find that you’re hired for only residential jobs when you’d prefer more variety.
There are lots of decisions to weigh up when it comes to choosing to go freelance, but if you want flexibility, a higher salary and potential variety in the kind of work you do then a freelance career might just be the right route for you!
If you’re considering moving to a freelance role as a Site Manager, Project Manager, Quantity Surveyor or Estimator, get in touch with CNM Recruitment. We work with a number of local companies and regularly hire for freelance roles in the construction industry. Let us find the right opportunity for you. Call us or send your CV to admin@cnmrecruitment.co.uk.