Going freelance

Going freelance: freedom or freefall?

Charlotte Gonella has been working as an IT contractor for over two years. Charlotte learnt her trade on the job in a number of permanent roles before deciding the traditional route was not for her, taking the decision to go it alone as a freelancer instead. We talked to her about the enviable benefits, as well as the risks and limitations, to help you decide if freelancing is an option for you.

So, tell us why you left the comfort and security of a permanent job.

My boss was demanding more than my salary warranted. I was exhausted by the constant long haul travel at short notice, I never got a say in whether or not I should go… I was working really hard to make money for someone else and had no control over the direction my working week would take. So I left to go freelance for more money, to work when I wanted and to be my own boss.

Did you find what you were looking for?

Well my salary is much, much better now! When I first started, I couldn’t believe it! Of course there are reasons I get paid more as a contractor. I don’t get the same benefits as a PAYE employee for a start; sick days come out of my own pocket and suddenly I have to factor in my day rate when I’m working out the cost of a holiday. It’s possible to be out of work for long periods too. I’ve been pretty lucky, but I do have a friend who spent six months trying to get his next contract.

I’m more conscientious, without a doubt. A combination of getting paid a higher salary and being employed solely because I fulfil a specific and short term business need – who I am or how I fit into a company doesn’t come into it – means I feel more responsible for the outcome of the projects I work on. If I need to put in overtime to get the job done, then I will. I’ve got to think about the value of recommendations and making contacts who are willing to put other opportunities my way as well. A successful freelance career lives or dies on reputation, especially in a niche area of IT like mine.

What support is out there for freelancers?

The Professional Contractors Group is a great association that supports contractors, freelancers and consultants.  I’ve always found their website really helpful, there’s lots of advice and tools for anyone who’s self-employed.  PCG also provide tax investigation insurance and free tax and legal helplines to members. There are also organisations that specialise in providing support to certain sectors, or for particular types of freelance work.

What’s the best thing about freelancing?

Freelancing has given me more freedom to decide when I work and how much unpaid time I take off.  I go on longer holidays and I just got back from Nepal where I spent six months working as a volunteer setting up wireless networks in the Himalayas.

And the worst?

Dealing with your own tax and financial matters can be confusing and stressful – even when you have a good accountant you need to know about tax rules, which is easier said than done when they seem to change all the time!  I’ve spent many evenings pulling my hair out over spreadsheets that don’t balance.

People in the office also sometimes make comments on how much more money I’m earning, which can make me feel uncomfortable.

What advice would you have for someone thinking about going freelance?

Employers won’t give you opportunities to develop your career because you’ll be paid to do only what you already know. Think about what happens in the future – what happens if work dries up? What if you want to start a family and how will you survive when you’re no longer working?

Other than that, keep all your receipts and get a good accountant!