This episode provides an in-depth look into the world of contracting and freelancing, and we share our background and experience in the field. Zac and I discuss why companies may be risk averse in hiring and how startups can compete for talent in a hot market. We also covers practical aspects of contracting such as how many years of experience are needed and how to generate leads, and tips for those who want to start freelancing. We also address important concerns for contractors such as how to navigate uncertain times and prepare for retirement. ▬▬▬▬▬▬ Resources & References 📕 ▬▬▬▬▬▬ 🎙️Audio only version of this episode: https://glich.stream/podcast ▬▬▬▬▬▬ Resources & References 📕 ▬▬▬▬▬▬ Zac's podcast website: https://tabsandspaces.io/ Twitter: @tabsnspacesHQ tabsandspaces Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/05xweMLT3cConDizrKFIgR?si=UC-0z3FdRHKwmpej5V_8Zg&nd=1 ▬▬▬▬▬▬ Chapters 🕐  ▬▬▬▬▬▬ 00:00 - Intro 00:17 - Announcements 01:40 - Zac's background 05:58 - Why are companies risk averse in hiring? 07:55 - Companies want to hire seniors at junior rates 10:04 - How can startups compete for talent in a hot market? 12:25 - Money is not always the top priority 14:55 - Why did you switch to contracting? 17:44 - The long careers & hard problems 23:32 - How many years of experience are needed before becoming a contractor? 29:25 - How do you generate leads? 31:02 - Any advice for those who want to start freelancing? 34:43 - How do you deal with uncertain times as a contractor? 37:21 - How do you prepare for retirement? 40:02 - Conclusion ▬▬▬▬▬▬ Connect with me 👋 ▬▬▬▬▬▬ - Twitter: https://twitter.com/bassemdy - GitHub: https://github.com/link- - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bassemdghaidy - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BassemDy - Blog: https://blog.bassemdy.com/ ▬▬▬▬▬▬ Support the channel 💜 ▬▬▬▬▬▬ Every little bit helps ✨ - Get access to perks: null - Join the journey on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/glich_stream - 1 time support: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/glich.stream #glichstream #softwareengineering