As we head into 2024, any number of tech pros are wondering whether they should pursue a career as a freelancer or contractor. According to a new report from the Upwork Research Institute, anyone deciding to go on this pathway will have a lot of company—and should consider using artificial intelligence (A.I.) and machine learning tools to stay ahead of the game.

Upwork’s report suggests that 47 percent of all freelancers (or roughly 30 million professionals) are involved in knowledge work such as computer programming and IT functions. Roughly 23 percent create “influencer content” such as livestreaming and social media videos. In other words, many tech pros are engaged in the freelancing and contracting life. 

“The data tells us that freelancing continues to play a vital role in the U.S. workforce. An increasing number of Americans are seeking greater flexibility, autonomy and earning power when it comes to their work, and they are finding it with freelancing,” Margaret Lilani, VP of talent solutions at Upwork, wrote in a statement accompanying the data.

Indeed, tech professionals are going freelance for the following reasons:

• Flexibility: Ever since the pandemic, more tech professionals have embraced the joys of flexible schedules and working from home.
• Control: Freelancers can choose their clients.
• Higher earning potential for specialists: Those tech pros who specialize in niche tech arenas can command high salaries.
• The ability to pursue passions: Freelancers can structure their own days, projects, and career goals.

While freelancing also comes with some potential downsides (you’re responsible for everything from your own healthcare to your own taxes, for instance), many tech pros are taking the leap.

Freelancing and A.I.

The Upwork survey reveals that freelancers are 2.2 times more likely to use generative A.I. frequently in their work than non-freelance professionals (20 percent vs. 9 percent). For freelancers who depend on doing as much work as possible to secure their salaries, A.I. offers the tantalizing possibility of getting work done faster.

For example, a freelancer could use A.I. to rapidly customize website or app content to a client’s needs. Freelancers who code could rely on code-generating chatbots to rapidly produce and double-check code.

How do I become a freelancer?

If you want to break into freelancing, you need to do a lot of preparation first. Here are some basic steps you can take to start:

• Identify your niche: Pinpoint your area of expertise and leverage a strong portfolio showcasing your skills and experience. If you’re a tech pro who’s been working for some time, you’ll have the elements for that portfolio already in place.

• Network as much as you can: Connecting with other tech pros, freelancers, and potential clients can help you build the extensive web of contacts you’ll need to succeed.

• Keep your skills updated: You must always remain at the cutting edge of your niche in order to remain relevant (and keep your clients).

• Deliver exceptional service: Do your best to stand out in every client interaction.

Don’t Fear A.I.

As A.I. continues to evolve, more freelancers will rely on it. While this might seem scary to some—this kind of automation has a way of eliminating jobs—using A.I. for lower-level and repetitive tasks could free up freelancers to fully engage in the more creative aspects of their jobs. By staying current on your A.I. knowledge, and figuring out how to integrate these tools into your workflow, you can stay ahead of the curve.