An overview of freelance, consultant, contract and remote jobs

Understanding the differences between freelance, consultant, contract and remote jobs can be very helpful when you’re attempting to navigate the modern job market. Let’s take a look at what’s involved in these kinds of roles right now.

Freelance jobs

Freelancers work independently on various projects that they have been assigned by numerous clients. They are self-employed and can offer their skills and services to clients both online and offline. Some of the key benefits of freelance jobs include flexibility, choosing your own hours, selecting suitable projects that are aligned with your experience and the ability to work from anywhere.

Consulting jobs

Consultants are experts who are hired by companies to help them overcome their challenges. They can use their knowledge and experience to help businesses meet specific targets and can provide strategic insights. Consultants tend to work on longer-term projects than freelancers.

Remote jobs

A remote job is a job that can be carried out from home or anywhere that someone has access to the internet. Remote work became more popular during the pandemic as more people and businesses realised certain jobs could be carried out just as effectively in environments away from traditional offices. Remote jobs are also noted for the work-life balance they provide.

Contract jobs

Contract jobs are ones that involve a specific agreement between an employer and a worker for a set period of time. A contract can be hired for a certain duration or for the entirety of a project. Contractors may be asked to work on-site or remotely. However, hybrid working can also be involved, which sees them carry out some of their duties at home and others in the office.

What are the differences between these jobs?

These jobs do involve certain levels of flexibility and independence, but there are important differences. Freelancers tend to work on short-term projects, whilst consultants tend to be involved in longer-term ones. Contractors are hired for specific time periods or the duration of a project, whilst remote jobs tend to involve a great deal of flexibility in terms of where the work is carried out.

Who needs to hire people freelancers, consultants, remote workers and contractors?

Freelancers are hired by businesses from a wide range of industries. Businesses can benefit from their skills without having to hire them on a long-term basis. Consultants are hired by companies who need help overcoming tough challenges and need expert guidance. Contractors are employed for specific projects, whilst remote workers appeal to companies who don’t require them to be in the office with them.

Where to find these jobs?

Freelance jobs can be found on various online platforms including People Per Hour, Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr. Many consulting jobs can be found via referrals and professional networks. Contract jobs tend to be found on job boards and company websites. Remote jobs are often seen on sites like Indeed.

When are these workers needed?

Freelancers are often sought out when companies need specialised skills for short-term projects. Consultants tend to be required when a business needs to be guided through a period of change or uncertainty. Contract workers are hired for projects that have specific timelines, whilst remote workers are useful for businesses that embrace flexibility and online collaboration.