How to succeed as a freelancer - Temporary and contingent workers are on the rise. The independent workforce has grown to 16.9 million from 16 million in the past year, according to research by MBO Partners, which provides business services to consultants. As companies realize that they can hire contractors for certain services instead of paying for full-time workers, more people will find themselves becoming freelancers, either by choice or by necessity. This isnt necessarily a bad thing. Many workers, especially millennials, are embracing this trend and relishing the flexibility that they gain while working a string of temporary assignments. And given employers propensity to lay off when hit with hard times, no job is really secure anymore. In an era in which every job is temporary, what skills does the worker need to thrive? What does it take to succeed in this gig economy? What does it take to succeed as a freelancer? 1. Know your audience. Its crucial that you know what skills youll need to compete in your field.