It is a widely held desire to have the option to work remotely. Beyond the convenience of not having to commute, telecommuting employees benefit from having more control over their daily tasks and work environment. Despite the appeal of working from home, many people feel apprehensive about taking the plunge, as the prospects of finding and maintaining remote employment are not always guaranteed.
Software development is rapidly becoming an increasingly attractive career option in the global economy. Working with US-based organisations may provide an opportunity for wage arbitrage, allowing individuals to potentially earn more than in local, full-time positions, even if they are not based in the United States. This can be particularly beneficial for those looking to take advantage of the borderless nature of the modern world.
We’ve compiled some of our best advice to help you thrive as a remote software developer if you’re thinking about ditching the 9-to-5.
Identify Your Roles & Duties Clearly
In order to effectively manage your workload, it is important to first identify and understand your capabilities and duties. This will help to prevent any potential misunderstandings with clients. As a project manager, you are responsible for planning and directing the necessary operations to ensure that the work is completed on time, within budget, and according to the required scope. The best way to define your duties and manage your customers’ expectations is to formalise the agreement with a legally binding contract. Alternatively, you could use a tool such as Works, which offers a comprehensive contract that protects both the client and the developer. This eliminates the risk of misinterpretation and allows both parties to clarify any misunderstandings. Moreover, it ensures that you do not end up working on tasks that are outside of your function and also provides you with protection in the event that the customer decides to take legal action against you.
Organise Your Finances
If you wish to reach both your personal and professional goals as a remote developer, it is essential to have your life in order, including your finances. As a remote employee, it is imperative that you are paid promptly. Fortunately, payment management systems such as Works provide developers with the assurance of timely payments.
Creating a budget is an effective way to gain control of your expenditures. It allows you to track all of your expenses and identify areas where you need to be more mindful of your spending, such as choosing the most cost-efficient supplies or reducing the amount of money you spend on coffee. Establishing a budget also gives you the opportunity to optimise your current resources and be more stringent with your spending.
One of the ways to ensure financial success as a remote software engineer is by using money-saving solutions. With the help of a high-yield savings calculator, it is possible to find banks and savings accounts that provide high annual percentage yields (APY) and aid in the growth of your money. Although a remote developer can earn a considerable amount of money, it is essential to have financial management in order to optimise your revenues and ensure long-term financial success.
Always Strive for a Good Work-Life Balance
Freelancing provides software engineers with more freedom, but this can often be abused by working too many hours or taking on tasks that invade their free time. To be successful as a freelancer in the software industry, it is essential to understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Doing so will not only provide more time for personal activities and relationships, but also help to prevent burnout. Achieving a successful balance between work and leisure activities is one of the most effective ways to avoid exhaustion.
As a freelancer, it is essential to develop a daily plan that allows you to effectively distinguish between your personal and professional lives. However, if circumstances permit, don’t be afraid to be flexible with your schedule. To achieve a healthy work-life balance, it is important to recognise your own limits and avoid putting too much pressure on yourself. Although having more customers may provide greater financial stability and career security, over-committing can have a negative impact on your work quality and productivity.
Are you considering leaving your 9-to-5 to become a successful freelance software developer? If so, please review the advice we have provided. Alternatively, you may want to look into services like Works, which offer the best of both worlds – the flexibility of freelancing and the security of a traditional job. With Works, you can find long-term positions with top US companies, enjoy regular hours and a steady paycheck, and know that you will be re-matched with a new client when your engagement is finished.
