The idea of working as a freelancer can be quite enticing. Often, people have visions of managing their own schedules, picking and choosing their projects, and maintaining a level of freedom you can’t find in a traditional office. However, pursuing a freelance career isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. It comes with a unique set of risks and challenges that not everyone is prepared to face, and may not be as lucrative as it seems on the surface.

But, there is a way to achieve more freedom in your career while mitigating some of the hazards you may face as a freelancer. Instead of striking out on your own, here’s why you should consider working with a recruiting firm.

You Still Get a Choice

Some of what attracts IT professionals to freelance work is the ability to be selective about what they do with their time. Traditional employment often involves a range of duties, not all of which are enjoyable. Freelancers can more easily focus on a niche, participating in the tasks they enjoy and forgoing those they don’t.

Assignments through a recruiting firm can work the same way. Temporary positions are more commonly focused on a specific project, eliminating the need to participate in other tasks that aren’t as satisfying. Further, you aren’t required to accept every position offered, allowing you to select those that interest you and bypass those that don’t.

Finding Opportunities

As a freelancer, you are more vulnerable to shifts in the larger economy. Often, contracts are offered when times are good, as the associated project may not be a fundamental part of business operations. However, should a downturn strike, cancellations and postponements can be common, leaving freelance workers with fewer options, especially when the effects are widespread.

Additionally, freelance professionals are often burdened with having to sell themselves from afar in situations where the initial level of trust may be low. Typically, you don’t get the benefit of a previous relationship when you seek out freelance contracts, and it can be harder to win someone over if you are completing the introduction and job remotely.

Recruitment firms often have a more reliable stream of opportunities, as these contract positions aren’t always viewed in the same way as those offered to freelancers. At times, more business critical assignments will be managed through a staffing agency as it can feel like a more secure option than hitting the freelancer market.

Plus, area businesses often have relationships with staffing agencies, which can make pursuing a short-term worker feel less risky when times are tighter. And this existing trust can be extended to you if the recruitment firm has successfully helped the company in the past.

Ultimately, working as a freelancer can be a viable career, but choosing to work with a reputable recruitment firm can provide you with the same level of freedom with significantly less risk. If you’re interested in learning more about short-term IT assignments, the team at MindFinders can connect you with leading employers in the area. Contact us to see how our services can help you shape your ideal career.

Written by Tim Booker, President and CEO of MindFinders, with over 20 years of industry experience.