Intro:
Freelancers have several tools at their disposal to run their business and deliver high-quality work. The most common ones are laptops, smartphones, and the internet.
The bulk of work and communication for freelancers does take place online. Even professionals who contracted independently before 2008 benefit from the modern tools available in 2022.
In some ways, professionals built the technology infrastructure that remote workers, freelancers, and digital nomads enjoyed in 2020 for them.
Let’s explore the best tools to utilize as a freelancer.
Hardware
Freelancers, independent contractors, and gig workers should invest in hardware. Hardware includes:
- Laptops
- Desktop computers
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Backup memory storage
Rideshare drivers should also invest in dashcams.
The hardware allows freelancers to manage their businesses. It’s where you’ll store your income, expenses, and scheduling records. Moreover, coupling these devices with productivity software allows you to optimize your time and cash.
Then, there are hardware tools that freelancers need for their specific industries. DJs require a good set of turntables and mixers while independent mechanics must acquire an array of wrenches and machines.
Even though we’ll outline tools for all freelancers, each professional must figure out specific ones that they need for their field.
Productivity Software
No shortage of productivity software exists in 2022. You’ll find software that delivers for all freelancers and options that cater to specific independent contractors.
Popular options include:
- Slack
- Dropbox
- Google Suite
- Evernote
Productivity software allows users to:
- Plan tasks
- Manage calendars
- Compile reports
- Analyze data
- Collaborate with team
The software replaces paper calendars and paper with digital versions. So it’s also environmentally friendly.
Several software companies offer free trials. Then, the price scales with the sizes of their client’s companies. If only one user will enjoy the service, it costs less than those who will onboard their teams of five or more professionals.
Microsoft 365 is the original productivity software suite but it’s expensive. However, many freelancers with lots of large corporate clients find it worth the extra time and cost to use Microsoft 365 as it works so smoothly with their clients and so improves their productivity.
Financial
Since trouble with finances is a big reason why small businesses fail in the first two years, freelancers benefit from adopting financial software too.
Entrepreneurs developed software to automate repetitive and low-level tasks. Then, their peers and employees could focus more time on high-impact tasks, and it’s especially beneficial for solopreneurs.
Financial software includes accounting and bookkeeping programs. They help you track income and expenses. Moreover, the software can compile reports that provide important data.
When tax time rolls around, everything you need to send off your estimated quarterly payments is set.
Cost-Cutting
Like small businesses, freelancers must manage their expenses and operating costs too. Since the number of freelancers continues increasing, subscription services that cater to them have launched in recent years.
These services provide online marketplaces where freelancers can find discounted essentials and services. For example, Gigly provides discounted insurance, legal, and financial services to its members including uninsured telehealth options.
Software also helps you optimize your revenue. It’s possible to start a web development, writing, and consulting freelancing venture with little to no upfront investment. When income starts rolling in, you have to spread it out strategically.
Graphic designers can start with limited versions of design tools at discounted prices. Eventually, they’ll need to upgrade to the full version. Mobile hair stylists might also need to make due with simple styling tools until they develop a reliable clientele base.
Nonetheless, bootstrapping is a great way to enter these ventures. It teaches you that you can run your operations on a scarce budget. Then, you’re more likely to use your funds wisely when it increases.
Home Office
The year 2020 proved that freelancers and employees can work from anywhere in the world. They only needed a few tools and a stable internet connection.
Nonetheless, freelancers should establish a home office, and that office requires a few essentials.
Start with a:
- Comfortable chair
- Ergo friendly desk
- Lamp for optimal light
- Extension cord with USB slots
- Charging cables for all devices
Then, add other items based on your preferences and needs. For example, financial professionals should have a sturdy calculator nearby. Interior designers need shelves to organize their color swatch books and samples.
Your goal is to create an optimal working environment. Even though you might work in the field, establish a home base too.
Conclusion
Becoming a freelancer in 2022 is easier than ever. Then, you can maintain operations through several tools. In many cases, you’ll find cost-effective versions of the tools and discounts on others.
