> How to be a Consultant, a Freelancer, or an Independent Contractor
It's important to note that:
- Consultant
- Coach (added by me)
- Contractor
- and Freelancer
Are four distinct species, if you will. These titles are typically used interchangeably. That's a mistake, often a costly one.
Furthermore, the key is to find fit with clients'/projects' needs and expectations. For example, the client - not knowing any better[1] - could say they're looking for a freelancer, but what they really expect is a consultant or a coach. Or you anticipate a steady contract engagement and it turns out to be more on/off freelance-y and in order to be available to this "great client" you end up leaving hours on the table. And then the client ghosts?
[1] Or because they know a freelance rate is lower/lowest, and then will effectively demand more and better because they can, not because that's what they agreed to pay for.
It's important to note that:
- Consultant
- Coach (added by me)
- Contractor
- and Freelancer
Are four distinct species, if you will. These titles are typically used interchangeably. That's a mistake, often a costly one.
Furthermore, the key is to find fit with clients'/projects' needs and expectations. For example, the client - not knowing any better[1] - could say they're looking for a freelancer, but what they really expect is a consultant or a coach. Or you anticipate a steady contract engagement and it turns out to be more on/off freelance-y and in order to be available to this "great client" you end up leaving hours on the table. And then the client ghosts?
[1] Or because they know a freelance rate is lower/lowest, and then will effectively demand more and better because they can, not because that's what they agreed to pay for.