Lone Working Freelancing Self Employment 28 th May

Lone Working, Freelancing & Self Employment 28 th May 2012 David Craigie Co-founder, Craigie Partnership

Overview Some statistics Why are we working alone? The benefits The challenges Possible solutions Networking opportunity

Introductions My name is… I work… Which description applies best? (lone worker, freelancer, self employed etc. ) If applicable – a burning question I have for today is…

Some statistics 4. 5 million small businesses in the UK Scottish Government statistics show that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) now account for 99 percent of all Scottish businesses and for over half of all private sector employment Source: www. fsb. org. uk Unemployment figures in Scotland are 142, 000 Source: www. bbc. co. uk

Why are we working alone or in isolation?

Why are we working alone? Have no choice Self employed Representing remote company Keeping costs down Prefer to work that way Flexibility Family reasons Health reasons…

What are the benefits of working independently?

Benefits of independent working Can (often) choose own working hours Keeping costs down maximises profit Easier to take on multiple roles Can access different time zones Less commuting (if working at home) No boss = no micro-management!

What are the challenges of working independently?

Challenges of independent work Morale Loneliness Access to peer support Lose touch with developments Easily misunderstood by friends and family Sense of identity Business image Multiple roles required by one person Working environment Annual leave? Sick pay? Parental leave?

Overcoming the challenges 1. 2. 3. 4. It is possible to creatively problem solve each challenge Solutions must suit your own situation Define the problem Propose some solutions Weigh up pros and cons of each solution Decide, plan and implement Final tips: Make the most of free events/resources networking opportunities and social media…

Links & Resources www. craigiepartnership. co. uk www. businessmattersedinburgh. com www. dhpscotland. co. uk (self employment support) www. bgateway. com (all things business) www. hmrc. gov. uk (all things tax) www. direct. gov. uk (supports, benefits etc. ) www. edinburghchamber. co. uk (Chamber of Commerce) www. fsb. org. uk (Federation of Small Businesses) www. mycos. co. uk (cost reduction services) www. findnetworkingevents. com (what it says on the tin)

Questions & Networking Opportunities