Chapter
1
Welcome to the Twenty-First Century
In This Chapter
• Learning basic Elance terms
• How the independent contractor role is increasing
• Real stories from the field
• Key benefits to building your business online
• A successful freelancer’s work habits
Hiring and working online isn’t nearly as difficult or as fraught with internet dangers as people think. In fact, data shows this truly is the new twenty-first-century way of doing business. Buying books on Amazon and music through iTunes is the new normal. Soon, finding work or growing your business online will be, too.
As the work world flattens, it’ll be less and less unusual for an online receptionist to “show up” for work from 2,000 miles away. And more morning commutes will consist of making coffee, having breakfast with the kids, and turning on the laptop rather than sitting for hours in congested traffic.
As with so many technological advances, at first it may seem intimidating, but as you learn and gain experience you will discover advantages you never knew existed. Virtual commuting is here to stay. Have a look and you just might be pleasantly surprised.