The Tech Gadgets Of A Modern-Day Contractor/Freelancer

As a self-employed expert, you can work on your own terms. It is one of the most liberating approaches to work, as you can choose when and where you commit to the business. For parents, for instance, freelancing enables you to schedule your working hours around your family. Besides, you also get to choose what you want to work on, which makes it an empowering process. Of course, you can’t always be picky about your gigs. But when you build a list of clients and a solid portfolio, you’ve got more room for choice. 

Whether you’re contracting as a full-time career or a side-hustle venture, you need to rely on technology to make it work. Most of us think of a laptop and home office equipment. But there’s more to freelancing tech than meets the eyes. In fact, the most useful tech gadgets for your career are solutions you can use on the go. 

The pay-as-you-go tool

If you’re called to work on a specific site, the last thing you want is to chase your clients for payments. You need a tool that lets customers pay on-site, such as a credit card reader for your phone. Using technology that can process payments with WiFi or 4G connectivity opens up a lot of opportunities for modern contractors. For a start, you can provide your services in real-time without worrying about payments: everyone has a credit card in their wallets. Secondly, you make things more convenient for your customers, which boost your reputation.  

The commute helper

Do freelancers always work from home? It depends entirely on your business. If you are a software engineer contractor, you are unlikely to need to be on-site. Yet, if you offer digital marketing or consultancy services, you may be called for ad hoc meetings. Cars or public transport solutions may seem more practical at first, but you can be limited by parking spaces, traffic, or train schedules. If you live locally, it can be a good idea to consider smart transport solutions, such as an electric bike that is easy to park anywhere in town. 

The business card on the go

What does a freelancer do when they meet someone who could need their services in the future? They need to reach out and expand their professional network. However, when you’re working on a tight schedule, you don’t always have time to start a discussion. You can, however, briefly introduce yourself and share your contacts to plan a future meeting. Using digital business cards on your phone keeps everything in one place. You don’t have to worry about finding your business card box at the bottom of your handbag or whether or not you’ve got enough cards with you. An electronic business card is quick, simple, and efficient to break the ice and build your network. 

The invoicing and tax calculating tool

If you’re taking payments on the go, you also want to be able to update your tax return on the go as well. Contractors keep an accounting app on their mobile, where they can register all the latest transactions and include relevant expenses. Your tax calculations are always up-to-date. 

Contractors and freelancers are thriving in lockdown. Many furloughed professionals have been looking at contracting opportunities to grow their income and remain active. But with the addition of these smart gadgets, you could bring your solo venture to the next level.