Part a

Introduction

Self awareness and relevant literature

Self awareness can be defined as the recognition of ones own mentality as well as ones temperament. It is also essential for understanding ones own feelings and emotions. The ability to recognize and comprehend one’s own emotions, beliefs, and attitudes, as well as the ways in which these factors influence behaviour, (Steffens et al, 2021). The ability to evaluate ones own strengths and weaknesses in an objective manner while retaining a positive attitude, a growth mentality, and a strong sense of ones own identity. When we are self aware, we are able to analyse both our strengths and our weaknesses. This comprehension helps us in the process of establishing our own particular goals. Positively, we are aware of the areas in which we have room for progress! Our capabilities give us the confidence that we can make improvements on our deficiencies in the future, (Palmieri et al, 2021). Administrators who have a strong sense of self awareness are better able to pinpoint areas in which they fall short as leaders, which in turn enables them to improve their performance in that area.

On the other side, executive awareness helps in areas include determining when and where they will have the greatest success, making snap decisions, dealing with stress, and inspiring and encouraging others. Acquiring new skills and enhancing existing ones. The starting point for any sort of improvement project should be an analysis of the gap between the current state of affairs and the desired future state of affairs, (Baciadonna et al, 2021). Accurate self awareness is a crucial first step in identifying areas for improvement. Personality traits are excellent indicators of a need for skill development.

They are cognizant of both your strengths and weaknesses. Self awareness gives you the ability to make the most of your strengths while limiting the impact of your weaknesses.  Through cooperation between broad and narrow decision making, superior assessments can be made. The capacity for intelligent judgment is now under development, (Reuschke et al, 2021). Managers who score high on the personality trait of psychological tend to be more attuned to their gut feelings. In complex situations, astute participants assess vast amounts of data that may be disorganised and conflicting, and base their choices mostly on their gut feeling or vision of what is best. Executives will need to make more choices like these in the future as the pace of change quickens and the level of uncertainty and complexity in their competitive environments rises. Managers with a strong grasp of their own emotions can rely more heavily on their gut feelings when making crucial decisions, (Huggins et al, 2021).

Freelancing will be the focus of this assignment. Given that freelancing exists on a continuum between traditional employment and entrepreneurship, defining its distinctive features can be challenging. According to (Brinkmann et al, 2021), the official statistics in the UK do not consider individuals to be freelancers. In contrast, the categories provided by Labor Force Review make it possible to estimate their numbers. Freelancers are self employed experts in a particular field, such as management, technology, or the humanities (Burke et al, 2020). Traditional agreements between freelancers and their clients lay out the parameters of their working relationship in writing (Aguado et al, 2021). This is different from the typical labour arrangement, which is based on a contract for services between an employee and an employer. Since freelancers are not directly employed by their clients and enjoy more autonomy than regular employees, their activity cannot be classified as employment.

Essential Characteristics and Context

There are both part time and full time opportunities available for freelancers. According to the findings of the study, there were around 1.91 million independent contractors operating in the United Kingdom in 2016 (Stephany et al, 2021). In the same year, there were 1.65 million people working full time as freelancers, and there were an estimated 255 thousand people employed. Later in 2019, the number of people in the UK who freelance on a full time basis topped 1.9 million, and significantly more than 234,000 people freelance in addition to working in other jobs. Freelancers are typically hired for the specialised knowledge they bring to the table and their ability to generate marginal costs in order to keep costs connected with the feast or famine nature of customer want under control. Freelancing should not be confused with working a professional job or running a small business, (Huggins et al, 2021).

According to (Burke et al, 2020), the primary distinction between freelancing and traditional job is that the former is episodic and undertaking, while the latter is neither. As a result, terminating is a unique trait. The agreements in the room are only in place for an insufficient period of time, and the contractor might be obliged to look for fresh employment. It gives the impression that the freelancer is the one accountable for the outcome of any employment or financial matters. When compared to other self employed people and business owners, it would appear that the major purpose of freelancing is to generate enough money to get by, especially considering the fact that their goals and methods are not particularly inventive. The ability to take risks and adapt to the unknown are essential qualities for a freelancer, (Brinkmann et al, 2021).

Additionally, it would appear that freelancers are reasonably prepared to return to conventional occupations when the opportunity presents itself in certain situations. The most significant risks associated with freelancing include decreased earnings and operational stability, less employment rights, and the inability to get a specific position, (Hu?ek et al, 2021). In spite of the fact that freelancers are far more likely to work independently and have greater leeway in their schedules, their pursuit of freedom is much more likely to be met with a variety of obstacles.

Freelancers in the United Kingdom are primarily supported by the Association of Independent Professionals, which is the largest occupational group in the country. This organizations mission is to support and promote those who work for themselves and live independently (Stephany et al, 2021). Customers are offered coverage for tax inquiries, accidents, and illnesses through this company. Additionally, it improves the movement of member companies by utilising conferences and other forms of communication. In addition to this, it makes it easier for independent contractors to win contracts with large companies or the government. Additionally, they provide a network that facilitates the establishment of commercial relationship.

Challenges and Obstacles

Entrepreneurial individuals who work in the scientific, artistic, or management fields are known as freelancers. They are frequently referred to as data labourers (Sawyer et al, 2020). Freelancers in a variety of fields, particularly KIBS and promotion solutions, achieve an extremely high level of discipline, which is beneficial to their educational pursuits. For instance, self employed people who have degrees in business and economics are more likely to have more muscular development than self employed people who have degrees in STEM fields, and significantly as much as self employed people who have degrees in arts and culture (Sawyer et al, 2020). In addition, technological expertise has been recognised as an essential component of a successful strategic asset in their freelance career. Gaining experience, seminars, and attending college classes are the three primary educational opportunities that are most beneficial to freelancers.

Nevertheless, professional growth is essential in a wide variety of contexts, and it is commonly seen as one of the most significant benefits of freelancing. Working closely with ones target audience in a variety of settings can help one develop their competence, (Hu?ek et al, 2021). The world of freelancing is comprised of three distinct categories of work: gigs, projects, and portfolios.

According to (Gupta et al, 2020), freelancers in research projects deliver the totality of a single commercial project or a considerable percentage of it. The agreement will end once the project is completed, and its duration can range anywhere from a few weeks to many months or even several years. The beginning, the stock exchange, rising innovations, the most recent industrial reception, and the building efforts are the ones that are most closely connected to the development endeavour, (Hasan et al, 2015). Gig work is a term used to refer to work that entails carrying out a certain job or task. Contractors that work in this capacity are not compensated based on the completion of a single big assignment; rather, their pay is determined by the individual assignments or tasks they do. Focusing ones attention on a number of different projects and gigs all at once is required for assortment work. Higher skilled freelancers are more likely to work on longer term projects, whereas individuals with less experience are more likely to undertake many short term gigs, (Huggins et al, 2021).

According to (Sawyer et al, 2020), the primary benefits of freelancing include the ability to be flexible, the freedom to make ones own choices, and the exposure to a wider range of assignments. A freelancer is not required to follow the instructions of their employers and has the freedom to select their own working hours and location (Burke et al, 2020). In addition to this, it supports professionals working in a wide variety of fields in making effective use of their information, achieving their potential, and continuously enhancing their abilities. These benefits are built on self sufficiency, a characteristic that is shared by all types of self employment opportunities, (Gupta et al, 2020). Despite their independence and freedom, entrepreneurs are need to depend on others and are subject to a number of restraints. Freelancing is sometimes misidentified as employment, despite the fact that its practitioners are not reliant on their employers and enjoy greater independence than those employed by traditional enterprises. Their financial obligation for their medical care is entirely on them. As a direct consequence of this, they are unable to make use of the advantages that are made accessible to employees (Sawyer et al, 2020). One of the benefits of going the freelance route is that it gives one the opportunity to be their own boss.

In addition, the COVID 19 pandemic has fostered the expansion of outsourcing, which has resulted in many businesses relocating their operations online as people all over the world connected and collaborated, (Burke et al, 2020). Despite the fact that business owners enjoy more independence and control over their schedules and operations than employees, their income is nonetheless vulnerable to economic fluctuations. For those who are new to freelancing, making professional contacts and establishing a customer identity can be challenging challenges (Huggins et al, 2021). Additionally, there is a possibility that the market is excessively large, which enables numerous contractors to perform the same activity.

In addition, many people who work as freelancers are willing to do so for a low wage, which weakens their position in the market to bargain for better conditions and raises the industrys risk profile. In addition to this, contractors frequently deal with demanding customers, who might contribute to the development of extra issues, (Gupta et al, 2020). On the other hand, being an independent contractor grants the freelancing individual the authority to sever their relationship with the company, continue working on the project, or bring it to a successful conclusion while maintaining their independence from it. Therefore, this type of labour cannot be considered prospective casual labour because people are required to work and supply a consequence regardless of whether or not they enjoy the provides that are made clear to them. According to (Stephany et al, 2021), firms make it easy to collaborate with independent contractors in remote places for a variety of reasons. Entrepreneurs have the option of working from home or going to more serene locations thanks to the rise of remote work, which gives them more control over the nature of the work they do and where they do it. Freelancers are favoured by businesses since they do not require the use of office supplies, regular breaks, or lunch breaks. In addition to this, they never call in sick to work and never complain about the decreased level of safety. However, due to the presence of a number of obstacles, working as a freelancer might be tough (Aguado et al, 2021).

Part B

Introduction

In section A, I mentioned that I was interested in working as a freelancer in the future. I wanted to be my own boss, therefore thats one of the primary reasons I went in this career direction. In addition, the quick spread of the COVID 19 epidemic was facilitated by the proliferation of businesses that have moved their operations online, which has led to more communication and engagement, (Marín Sanchiz et al, 2021). Even though Ive been working in Digital Media on a part time basis for the past year, I still need to conduct an honest assessment of my capabilities to determine whether or not this is the right line of work for me and what aspects of my performance I can enhance. Whether or not the job I intend to pursue is one that I desired or one that happened to me will allow me to develop as a person will depend on whether or not the environment or the type of career I wish to follow will allow me to do so. For my freelance work, I used self assessment instruments to determine my strengths and opportunities for growth in crucial abilities. The first section, Part A, focuses on a number of key hurdles and roadblocks that entrepreneurs face. On the other hand, this part will analyse my capabilities and limitations with regard to the problems and concerns discussed in section A.

Discussion of Different Behavior Variations

A managers ability to think conceptually enables the manager to be innovative and give ideas that assist the organisation in running efficiently. A major figure needs to be ready to experiment with innovations and have the ability to properly design the creation of a digital workplace because the environment of the internet age is always shifting, (Gupta et al, 2020). This helps to ensure that the team is immersed in a culture of continual improvement, which is beneficial for the team as a whole. Because progress is difficult to attain without taking chances, notable figures with intellectual talents are also risk takers. Advances are difficult to make without taking chances. The ability of a commander to communicate clearly and successfully with his or her troops is referred to as human skills. Essential capabilities refer to a leaders familiarity with a variety of management philosophies and approaches to problem solving, (May et al, 2021).

According to the situational model, there is no one effective leadership style that is inherently superior to the others. As a consequence of this, good leadership is contingent on the situation that is now taking place. The leadership of an organisation ought to modify their method of management in accordance with the specifics of the situation by taking into account factors such as the nature of the people who back them and the responsibilities they are given (Burke et al, 2020). Leaders in the digital space also need to employ a management style that is suitable for the supporters levels of emotional development. As a direct consequence of this, they have a greater propensity to be effective leaders who collaborate. This indicates that a significant figure must view the people who support them as their most valuable assets, rather than simply viewing their staff as statistics, (Reuschke et al, 2021). They are also obligated to make regular efforts to involve the people who have supported them in their management. They might be able to get through this challenge if their feedback is taken into consideration or if they are given additional responsibilities.

My status as a plant was determined by taking the Belbin test, which considers ones colleagues, successes, and permitted shortcomings. This indicates that my ability to be creative, innovative, and unconstrained is one of my greatest strengths. Anything that challenges me to think critically and creatively appeals to me. Additionally, I am capable of giving every possible course of action careful thought and succeeding in environments where careful decision making is essential. In addition, I am an original thinker who thrives in a free environment (Palmieri et al, 2021). These qualities will serve you well as a freelancer. According to (Aguado et al, 2021), businesses that employ people in cognitive, logical, or administrative roles are considered to have cognitive employees. My ability to think creatively and come up with novel solutions helps me stand out as a contractor.

Its a great chance for me to put my skills to use and develop to my fullest potential. When it comes to the desire to work in filthy conditions (Baciadonna et al, 2021), independent contractors are not required to comply with the restrictions outlined in section A that are imposed by their employers. They are free to set their own hours and work schedules. Furthermore, freelancers primary advantages lie in their independence, adaptability, and access to a diverse range of work opportunities. As a result, freelancers offer some independence, much like those who engage in other forms of self employment, (Hu?ek et al, 2021).

On the other hand, the Rokeach Integrity Study hints that an emphasis on physical enjoyment and relaxation is one of the acceptable flaws. Also, I have a propensity to think more highly of myself than of my coworkers. Research Part A found that freelancers incomes fluctuate and are unpredictable as a direct result of their purchases and the number and size of their completed assignments (Gupta et al, 2020). I was getting questions from possible customers, particularly those interested in starting off. My chances of getting the job could be harmed since I am easily tempted by wealth and might end up spending the money on meaningless things rather than enhancing my internet reputation. Despite these being innate characteristics of mine, Ive learnt to push myself outside of my cultural comfort zone.

In addition, as a freelancer, Ive learned that if you know how to approach clients and have the necessary technical abilities, finding customers is not hard at all. In addition, as mentioned in subsection A, businessmen can conduct operations from the comfort of their own homes if they so want because they are self employed and can travel to serene, isolated locations for meetings (Stephany et al, 2021). Therefore, I am free to take my work wherever I go, regardless of where I happen to be, and I may do it in any lovely setting I want, provided I have access to a computer.

However, one of my flaws is that I am resistant to change and want to think things out thoroughly before taking any kind of action. Because I have to spend more time deciding, I will probably turn down the organisation. My inability to negotiate with regularity and my deficiency in interpersonal skills make it difficult for me to lead teams. The findings also show that an overly optimistic character develops when favourable opportunities and people come together to boost ones spirits. As said in section A, this could make me unhappy if Im working on the project alone and cant meet with my coworkers, or if the employer doesnt accept me in a timely manner (Sawyer et al, 2020). The freelancers experience with difficult customers is depicted in Part A as well (Burke et al, 2020). As a result, if I know I may cancel the contract at any time or stop communicating with a difficult customer, I may be more likely to do so.

The ability to communicate effectively and build relationships with other businessmen is also crucial. Consulting can benefit from networking with other professionals, which can be fostered by participating in relevant events. As was discussed in Section A, the Independent Professionals Society is the most prominent academic organisation in the UK that supports independent workers, (Ihl et al, 2022). Meeting people of different backgrounds is a requirement of membership in order to expand ones network and secure mutually beneficial contacts with other members. Thinking critically is required when interacting in such contexts. The results of the cultural sensitivity test I took show that I am making an effort to learn about other peoples backgrounds and customs before interacting with them. Im cognizant of and appreciative of the various countries, perspectives, and people that broaden my horizons and facilitate my social development.

Conclusion

Many people worry that they wont be given a fair shot or the freedom to devote their lives to something meaningful. If I am being completely honest, I would much rather leave my current circumstances behind me and try my hand at Freelancing. While working as a freelancer may allow me to work from almost anywhere in the world, the results of my aptitude tests show that In my opinion, I would do better in a consulting firm, where independent contractors are treated as if they were full time employees. However, my natural inclination toward exploration sometimes cause me to stray from the main point in favour of investigating secondary matters. However, the Emotional Maturity Test suggests that I have room to grow in my bargaining abilities. Therefore, I need to be more pragmatic so that I dont get annoyed so quickly. The results of the toolkit tests also demonstrate my proficiency in teamwork, suggesting that my optimism, drive, and self awareness are essential to my success in my chosen profession.

Strength and weakness table

Part C

Establishing Developmental Area

My first area for development is the amount of time and energy I devote to research; this is a potential bottleneck for my freelance business. Spending too much time on it, while studies are necessary in Freelancing, can lead to decision fatigue. (Sawyer et al, 2020) argues that using methods causes one to become less effective in mentally taxing activities, reduces ones mental power, and puts an end to ones ability to be creative. I plan to implement some of Kanes suggestions to improve this area. That includes planning my time and activities so that I can focus on the most important decisions, knowing what I want, sharing that goal with others, and getting started even if its not the ideal moment. Another part of myself that needs work is my natural inclination toward tranquilly. In addition to hurting my bottom line, convenience could reduce my capacity to recruit customers. If I want to get forward in my field, I need to force myself out of my comfort zone. (Gupta et al, 2020), proposes making a list of the many things I should do to improve as a freelancer, zeroing in on those issues, and taking the essential measures one at a time to achieve this goal. The help of a great mentor is also recommended (Burke et al, 2020). A computerised or analogue manager has the potential to keep me on my toes and help me grow as an employee. Given that Ill be stuck in an office all day as a freelancer, Ill have to make an effort to improve my health by doing things like taking up scuba diving, jogging, and going on hikes. As for my spending habits, I need to work on things like budgeting more effectively and resisting the need to make impulse purchase.

Personal development and objective plan   

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