Background
The idea of freelancing or home-based jobs started in 2005 when I stumble upon an article in Reader’s Digest, about a woman providing administrative services at the comfort of her home. At that time freelancing in the Philippines means only services made by writers, programmers, designer, artists, etc. The concept of freelance virtual assistant was unheard of. The thought of working at home, got me interested, although I don’t have any knowledge where to start or what to do.
The awareness that I can work at home has never left me even when I am still working in a corporate setting. Last November 2018, I decided to resigned from my work and gathered all my courage to pursue a career in freelancing or what they call now as, “the gig industry.”
Working for 11 years in the private sector and 6 years as an entrepreneur for small business have given me the skills and knowledge to join the “bandwagon.” The time is ripe to embark on another journey in my career. I can now join the world of freelancing by becoming a virtual assistance. Also, I have the choice to work at home or working while traveling like digital nomads.
Why Freelance?
There are many reasons why freelancers want the freedom to work anywhere, anyplace and anytime. They have their priorities, motives and stories to tell. Digital Nomad loves to travel. Work at home moms needs to take care of their families. Others do not like to get stuck in a traffic jam.
In my thoughts, these are my reasons:
Solopreneur
Being the boss of your own company is the wish of almost employees. The products and services are your skills and knowledge. You sell this to the client by means of Upwork.com, Onlinejobs.ph, Remotetasks.com, Freeup.com or Fiverr.com.
Business Trends
The growing numbers of a freelancer have made several companies to employ them so that they can minimize the cost of labor expenses while being competitive in the market. This can also increase their business profit as well.
Legislative Action
Last year, President Duterte signed the “work from home law or the telecommuting act," recognizing the employee who works from an alternative workplace as a legitimate working arrangement. They are also entitled to labor benefits enjoys by the traditional worker. Although the scope of the law is for private companies hiring a local worker, we can expect in the future that more law will be pass to safeguard Filipino freelancer.
Flexibility
The freedom of working from anywhere, anyplace and anytime is one enjoyment that freelancer experience.
Learning new skills
Working with different clients will give you an opportunity to learn new things, skills, knowledge, and tools that will empower and adds to the list of your expertise.
Quality time with the Family
The chance of bonding with your family and looking for their safety is the best reward that any freelancer can have while earning at home.
Chasing your dream or interest
Because freelancer has freedom of time, they can pursue their passion like photography, traveling, gaming, gardening, painting, etc. They can also enroll and go back to school to continue their education.
Expenses
Daily expenditure will be minimal. There will be no travel expenses, fuel consumption or parking fees. You need not also to worry about your attire for work.
Benefits of Hiring a Filipino Freelancer
Filipinos are considered to be the top choice among the outsourcing companies. Based on the website, Ranker, the Philippines ranks in no. 8.
“With a growth rate of 46%, the Philippines have become a strong competitor in the outsourcing industry. This growth rate has been maintained due to this country’s low labor costs, highly skilled workforce, and language diversity. Call centers have begun showing up and provide businesses with email response and management services. 80% of this service is administered to the US, which has given the countries BPO services a huge boost. Quality, Cost-effectiveness, and reliability is the best way, to sum up, these countries provisions. “
Aside from that, the list of benefits are as follows:
Communication
The Filipinos have a good command of English. It is the second language spoken here in the Philippines.
Social Media
Social media is popular among Filipinos. They have Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. They know how to use these to sell products and services and to increase their follower.
Training
In the Philippines, Business Process Outsourcing is one of the major industry that creates job. Most Filipinos have experienced working and interacting with an onshore client. They are familiar with different time zone to meet the deadlines.
Work Ethic
Dedication and hardworking are one of the best qualities of a Filipino worker. They can manage tedious task without complaints. They are willing to learn new skills to achieve business goals. Efficiency is also one of their qualities, and they can provide quality output.
Labor Expenses
Employers can save money on Filipino freelancer. They cost less than their counterpart in other countries.
Conclusion
The trend for freelancing is continually growing at a tremendous rate. More companies now are recruiting a freelancer. They are leaving away from the traditional setting of hiring and working to give way to a new industry, “the gig industry.” Their aim is to minimize cost while gaining an advantage of the competitive market. This is the reason why Remote Desk was created to help businesses maximize their potential while providing a quality solution.