How do you enjoy autonomy/freedom working as a freelancer on platforms?

[ar25391]

I wonder how freelancers enjoy autonomy/freedom while working on platforms. It looks like freelancers on platforms have to be always watchful and concerned about maintaining perfect scores (e.g., great reviews, minimum response time, minimum cancellation rate, on-time delivery etc.). Doesn't it feel like a constant pressure? Does this experience vary across the levels of skills/power of freelancers? For instance, is it like more skilled sellers are less worried about all the metrics as they may have multiple earnings sources and are likely to be less dependent on a single platform?

What determine platform freelancers' autonomy/freedom? When do they enjoy it?    

[vananshar]

Having done both, I can tell you that freelancing definitely affords more autonomy than traditional 9 to 5 Jobs. But then, in order to succeed and make a full-time living as a Freelancer, you need to wear a lot of hats.  You should have the ability to put yourself on a schedule, constantly keep yourself updated, learn how to communicate effectively with clients, etc. I don't think the more skilled freelancers worry less about metrics because everyone gets difficult clients, periods when algo is not in your favour etc but you just need to know how to deal with it. It matters how you respond to a negative review, how you learn new things on your field - Essentially how well you bounce back.

Also, I feel like in a traditional job setting, you're a cog in the wheel. That could get a little discouraging when you don't know what you're working towards 8 hours a day, everyday. But as a freelancer, you know exactly what you're supposed to do. I cannot tell you how freeing that is. 🙃

[melanielm]

With autonomy comes responsibility. It's simple to have a regular job. You show up on schedule, do the assigned work, leave again, and the pay comes in regularly and reliably. Freelancing or running your own business requires, I believe, a lot more work and strategizing, especially at the beginning. I've been doing this for 20+ years and have earned more freedom over time. I do not work only on platforms. I personally don't think it's a good idea to focus on them for the long-term. Diversification leads to more freedom.

Enjoying it? I think the type of people who are able to succeed with self-employment enjoy the autonomy itself. At this point, I have time and income to pursue more interesting things, too.

Edited September 7, 2023 by melanielm

[teamandromeda]

Yes I really do enjoy it, since 12 years now, the digital nomad type (only need laptop + wifi to work) but there have been ups and downs. Be available, present and unique. Ban out parasitic (potential) competitors. Just like any other job you have to keep doing your best. Are you as productive as during your 9-5 job? Did you got up at 5am, workout/yoga, got dressed and sit at your desk at 9? Did you do breakfast-lunch-dinner? The main important one: branding, visibility and always give value so that people will remember you and return to you and refer others. 

[proconsultn2035]

You have freedom/autonomy but you must play by the rules of the platform and business.