Lone Working, Freelancing & Self Employment

28th May 2012

David CraigieCo-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

It is possible to creatively problem solve each challenge

Solutions must suit your own situation

1. Define the problem2. Propose some solutions3. Weigh up pros and cons of each solution4. 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