Hina Javed Malik
If you Google “top freelancing countries” you will see Pakistan ranking at number 4 in the list. A feat that speaks volumes of the freelancer’s commitment, quality, and talent all over the country.
The Freelancing Phenomena:
The long commuting hours to an office and working within restrictions set by the management seem no more attractive to individuals who have the potential to cultivate their innovative spirit. Today’s technology has provided them with initiatives that enable the workforce to become independent of the traditional working dynamics. The freelancing profession provides a wonderful experience for people who wish to work on their own and expand their client base around the globe.
Freelancing has grown over the last decade and has impressively contributed to the global economy. It allows the independent worker to work on several projects and be his/her own boss. It is not exclusive to countries with developed economies; it is emerging as an inspiration for developing economies as well.
Pakistan’s Perspective:
In Pakistan, freelancing has become a great way to increase income and has contributed a lot to the well-being of individuals. Online marketplaces such as Upwork.com, Guru.com, fiverr.com, and Freelancer.com, etc. offer skilled workers the to post and bid for projects and make a living irrespective of their location.
Freelancing in Pakistan is growing rapidly and now our country stands fourth in the list of top ten freelancing countries in the world. According to Adam Byrnes, the executive of online marketplace Freelancer.com, “Self-employment that is being provided by the platform includes a significant portion which is contributed by Pakistan”.
It is a platform that connects freelancers from around 247 countries of the world, providing skilled workers to earn in fields such as data entry, writing, software development, marketing, etc.
Pakistan is considered a very important country from a freelancing aspect as a growing number of college and university graduates are adopting this profession as their full-time career. According to estimated research, the estimated value of freelancing that is done in Pakistan lies between US$200-300 million per annum. Freelancers are bringing a lot of income to our country which has provided Pakistan an opportunity to make a shift from an agricultural-based country towards a more technical-based and educated environment.
While addressing the 4th Pakistan CIO Summit in Karachi, IT Minister Mrs. Anusha Rehman, said that the IT industry in Pakistan is the fastest growing industry and is contributing to the growth sector with a growth rate above 41% during 2014-15. She also stated that the state has offered various inducements for investors in the sector of information technology, with a promise of exemption from taxes.
In order to make “Freelancing” more effective in Pakistan, we need to provide mentors who understand the requirements of freelancers, can share tips, and suggestions, and assist the starters in this field. People who are experienced can help others to make freelance work a successful career in the long run. Freelancing has reshaped the lives of many and is on the rise for reshaping the future for many others. It is creating a workforce that is able to support itself in a more respectable manner.
In Pakistan, freelancing has become a great way to increase income and has contributed a lot to the well-being of individuals. Online marketplaces such as Upwork.com, fiverr.com, Guru.com, and Freelancer.com, etc. offer skilled workers to post and bid for projects and make a living irrespective of their location.
If you Google “top freelance countries” you will see Pakistan ranking at number 4 in the list. A feat that speaks volumes of the freelancer’s commitment, quality and talent all over the country.
