This is an interesting question, as often we see these terms used interchangeably and there is also a huge amount of overlap. However, there are stark differences between these designations and lumping these groups together into one in all instances is not a helpful exercise as these groups have different needs, pain points and strategies.
So What Is The Difference Between These Terms?
What is a Freelancer?
The term ‘ freelancer’ actually comes from mercenaries from the early 19th century whose loyalties and weapons belonged to the highest bidder; they were literally lances for hire. Today, this term denotes a professional who is offering their services, usually to an existing company as part of a team, and who has not incorporated their own company. Freelancers are essentially part-time, specialist employees for hire.
What does self-employed mean?
Being self-employed means that you do not earn your income from regular full-time employment, but rather through freelancing or solopreneurial activities. This term is often used when paying your yearly income taxes in many countries, as ‘self-employed’ is a tax designation. Freelancers are self-employed, where as Solopreneurs are not, as they work for their own company.
What is a Solopreneur?
A solopreneur is an individual that is building a brand and company, with only one employee, themself. They may be involved in many different disciplines or industries, but what makes them a Solopreneur is that they are building a company. They are a solo entrepreneur.
Can A Freelancer Become A Solopreneur?
Yes, and it is often the case that solopreneurs begin as freelancers offering their services before starting their company. However most freelancers are happy to remain as freelancers and there is no problem with this. Everyone has their own path to success.
Pain Points
Now that we know the differences between these groups it’s important to acknowledge the different pain points that they must face, such as:
- Solopreneurs must make long term strategic decisions to benefit their business and brand
- Freelancers are usually seeking corporate clients and they function as part of an existing team
- Most freelancers do not need to concern themselves with a brand, rather they strive to achieve a good reputation
- Solopreneurs often work on a B2C basis, rather than B2B — like most freelancers
- Solopreneurs are quite diverse, ranging in service from online yoga teachers to interior designers and more
- Freelancers provide their services to others but Solopreneurs may need external help, meaning that they themselves may hire freelancers to assist them
Many online work marketplaces exist, however, the majority of these platforms cater almost entirely to freelancers and their needs. This leaves solopreneurs with a difficult challenge to face in terms of building their brand whilst also reaching out to and winning new clients.
EZwhale is a new marketplace that was created to serve only solopreneurs. The platform, marketplace and tools are there to help these solo entrepreneurs to get started quickly. Solopreneurs can use EZwhale to generate meaningful web presence for their brand, find new clients, organize invoicing and payments and deal with all client communications.