Biggest Challenges Faced by a Freelance Software Engineer
Ryan's biggest challenges as a freelance software engineer include the inherent instability of income and the constant need to "keep up with all the new tech," a fast-paced environment that sometimes clashes with client expectations and practical limitations of software development. The balancing act between flexibility and financial security, along with managing the complexities of self-employment, are also significant hurdles.
Freelancing, Income Instability, Technology, Client Communication, Time Management
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Ryan Yost
Software Engineer
Freelance/Contractor
University of Michigan
None
Spanish & Other Languages, Economics
Technology
Product / Service / Software Development and Management
Honors Student, Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Balancing work and personal life, especially during vacations, as income is directly tied to work.
2. The fast-paced nature of the tech industry and the constant need to learn new technologies.
3. Managing client expectations and translating technical limitations into understandable terms for non-technical stakeholders.
Transcript
What is your biggest challenge in your current role?
Particularly with freelancing, there isn't a steady stream of income or stability. If I go on vacation, I don't get paid; I just pay for it and don't work, which isn't ideal. I also have to manage all my own taxes.
So, there's a lot more overhead, but it's a balance with flexibility. It's definitely a challenge.
Another big challenge is keeping up with all the new technology. It's impossible for anyone to know everything, and there's so much constantly changing. It's fun, but also insanely overwhelming.
The pace is so fast that sometimes you just don't have the time to keep up. This can lead to worse code.
Sometimes, it's just really hard to do what a client or boss wants you to do. Someone who might not understand coding or software development as much may not realize something is super hard, yet they expect it to get done.
That discrepancy between understanding and practicality can be really tough. I think those are the big ones for me.