Guest blogger Julie Cortés is back with her new post – Misconceptions of a Freelancer.

When you think “freelancer,” what comes to mind? If you think bunny slippers, Jerry Springer, and a bucket full of bonbons, you’re not alone.

Since starting The Freelance Exchange www.kcfreelanceexchange.com, I’ve met hundreds of self-employed advertising/marketing professionals. And I can tell you that this perception of freelancers does not hold true.

Yes, some freelance between jobs, and some are indeed slackers. But for the most part, they’re smart and talented individuals, who choose to be on their own, and bust a move to ensure their success. These are the “permalancers.” The “solopreneurs.”

Yet, what’s baffling is that some businesses won’t consider a freelancer for a project or full-time job because they don’t think they have “real” experience. But in reality, most freelancers have more than “real” experience. Why?

Because they’re not just copywriters, designers or photographers. They’re also account executives, research assistants and secretaries. They’re CEOs, CFOs, COOs and marketing strategists all in one. They are … business owners.

Freelancers probably work just as hard, if not harder, than those with a “real” job. And with this experience, they could very well be the next generation of big business owners.

So, the next time you hear the term “freelancer,” you might want to reconsider that bunny slipper notion.

Be sure to check Julie Cortés on twitter at kccopydiva and website at juliecortes.com