When you were growing up, how many times were you asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Doctor, teacher, world-changer—those might have been on your list. But did you ever consider becoming your own boss?
The path to entrepreneurship or freelancing isn’t always obvious. Unless you made a conscious choice as a teenager or university student, the idea of working for yourself might never have even crossed your mind. And that’s a missed opportunity. We grow up with a clear picture of what it means to be an employee. But what about freelancing? What does it actually involve? And how does it compare to traditional employment?
Let’s break it down into three key areas.
- Job security
- Finances & admin
- Training & development
Job security
One of the biggest concerns about freelancing is: “But what if your contract suddenly ends?” There’s a common fear that freelancers face instability, while employees enjoy long-term security. But let’s be real—having a permanent job doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed work forever.
Sure, employees typically have notice periods and redundance protections. But freelancing offers something just as valuable: flexibility. You get to choose your clients, set your rates, and control your schedule.
Of course, with freedom comes responsibility. If you suddenly find yourself without a project, there’s no safety net—no project means no invoice. It’s as simple as that.
This is exactly where Brainbridge makes the difference. As a specialised staffing partner in IT, we ensure a seamless transition from one project to the next, keeping your workload (and income) steady.
“Every time I speak with candidates looking to start as freelancers, I hear the same misconception: that self-employment means a lack of job security. But in my experience, with the right growth mindset and a few years of expertise, there will always be new opportunities and projects around the corner.”
Finances & Admin
Let’s talk money. Unlike employees, freelancers handle their own invoicing, taxes, and social contributions. That means chasing unpaid invoices, keeping track of VAT, and managing tax deductions—all while making sure you’re earning enough to sustain your lifestyle.
Setting the right rate is crucial. Charge too little, and you’ll struggle financially. Charge too much, and you might price yourself out of projects. Not sure how to calculate a solid freelance rate? Check out our guide.
Sounds overwhelming? Not with Brainbridge. As a Brainbridge consultant, all the admin hassle disappears. Just send us your timesheet and invoice—we handle the rest. No delays, no headaches, just on-time payments. And for the rest of your accounting? You can always rely on experienced accountants that help you with it all.
“As long as you submit your timesheet and invoice on time, I can guarantee that your payments will always be processed promptly. If there’s any issue on the client’s side, don’t worry – we’ll handle it for you.”
Training & Development
Here’s something that often gets overlooked: as a freelancer, you are 100% responsible for your own growth. There’s no employer sending you on training courses or funding your development.
Upskilling takes time and money. Not only do you need to invest in training, but you also lose billable hours while learning. In the long run, it pays off—but it’s something to factor into your freelance journey.
So, freelancing something for you?
There you have it—three key differences between freelancing and employment. Feeling ready to take the plunge? Let’s talk! Mail us at recruitment@brainbridge.be, and let’s explore the best path for you.
Need more insights before making the switch? Check out our guide: How to Become a Self-Employed Professional.
