Lunch & Learn Session with Daniel Juhász – The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
In a recent PMI Lunch & Learn session, Daniel Juhász, Partner at Zenith Vanguard, shared his experiences and insights into freelancing in project management. With over 16 years of experience across seven industries, Daniel discussed the evolving nature of project management, the rise of freelancing and how professionals can adapt to this changing landscape. Freelancing in Project Management: Opportunities and Challenges Freelancing offers project managers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, allowing them to choose their projects, clients and working environment. However, this independence comes with challenges. Freelancers must constantly adapt to new tools, teams and methodologies while coping with less job security than traditional employment. Managing stress and maintaining a work-life balance is essential for long-term success in the freelance world. Essential Skills for Freelancers Freelancers need more than technical expertise to be successful in their roles. Daniel highlighted the importance of several key skills. Adaptability is crucial for quickly adapting to new environments and demands. Creativity allows freelancers to find solutions that others might overlook, while strong communication skills are essential for building relationships with clients and teams across different industries. Resilience is also needed to stay motivated and deal with challenges, including rejection or project failure. The Evolving Workplace and the Role of Freelancers The traditional 9 to 5 workplace is undergoing significant change, with remote working, hybrid models and an increasing demand for flexible solutions making freelancing an attractive option for professionals and organisations alike. Companies value freelancers for their ability to provide specialised skills on demand while maintaining cost efficiency. However, freelancers often face organisational tensions and limited authority, making it essential to rely on their expertise to build trust and deliver results. Market Trends in Freelance Project Management The freelance workforce continues to grow globally. Daniel noted that by 2025, freelancers could make up 35-40% of the global workforce. In Hungary, around 20-25% of IT professionals are already freelancers. Project management freelancers are particularly in demand, especially those with seniority and experience in specialised areas. Keys to Success in Freelancing To succeed as a freelance project manager, Daniel highlighted the importance of building a strong personal brand and network to secure opportunities. Investing in continuous learning is essential to remain competitive in an evolving market. Freelancers should view their career as a long-term endeavour that requires patience and persistence. Managing stress effectively and taking breaks when necessary are also essential to maintaining productivity and well-being. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Freelancing Inspired by the classic film, Daniel summarised the pros and cons of freelancing. On the positive side, freelancing offers flexibility, varied experiences and the potential for higher earnings. However, there are also disadvantages, including stress, lack of organisational support and inconsistent income. In addition, freelancers may struggle to build long-term client relationships and face challenges in ensuring continuity across projects. Freelance project management is a rewarding but challenging career path. As Daniel pointed out, the role requires adaptability, creativity and a proactive mindset. By embracing these qualities, freelancers can overcome the challenges and seize the opportunities of this dynamic field. At Zenith Vanguard, we understand the unique challenges freelancers face and are committed to supporting them through resources, knowledge sharing and a thriving professional community. Let us know what you think: Are you considering a freelance career in project management, or are you already navigating its complexities? Join the Zenith Vanguard community.
