The Secrets of Self-Employment

Going from a ‘secure’ job to self employment is, for many, a tough decision, especially when it affects so many things, such as your lifestyle, family and friends.

Yet, the first question many ask themselves is ‘do I have the skills? Don’t get me wrong, it’s a valid question, especially as it could mean going from the role of a Web Developer, Accountant or Hairdresser to now adding Head of Finance, Sales and Marketing amongst others.

We asked a number of our co-working community to help you by answering the question: “What are the secrets that no-one tells you about going self-employed?” These are their answers:

• It’s more secure than a ‘job’.
• You sometimes miss having a boss. (It’s worth noting that this point was largely disputed)
• It’s lonelier than you imagine it to be while you’re longing to be rid of your annoying boss/co-workers. So plan for it.
• Businesses (even large) are just as close to no money as you, they just have a department to worry about it.
• There’s nowhere to hide in your own business.
• (although, if you work at home, your TV set will tell you otherwise)
• Removing the safety net of your salary is far outweighed by the removal of the upper limit of your potential earnings.
• Failure is positive because it means you’re actually trying to achieve something.
• Your partner/family will feel it so prepare the ground.

What about you? What have you learnt about running a business that you didn’t know before you started? And, if you did know, would it have made a difference?

Email us at info@cambridgebusinesslounge.com or on twitter @CamBizLounge. We’d love to hear from you.

This post originally appeared at http://www.cambridgebusinesslounge.com/the-secrets-of-self-employment/