RE: Thoughts about Whether to Become Independant

I've been thinking about becoming independent as well.
I add some of my thoughts below.

> -----Original Message-----
> 1. I'll have to do my own accounting, taxes, etc.
> -------------------------------------------------

Not necessarily. One can work with an accountant. It is even
recommended, since I'm not sure if GnuCash covers the Israeli tax laws. 

> 2. I can do what I choose
> -------------------------
To some extent, this is true. However, you may have to take projects you
prefer not to simply because you need the money, want to get a foot in
the door with a specific client, etc.

A friend of mine is an independent interior designer and she had to be
back at work few days after giving birth, simply because her clients
needed her and she didn't want to risk them turning to someone else.
This is something employees don't worry about.

> 3. I would need good contacts and publicity
> -------------------------------------------

I think this is the most difficult point.
It is not enough to be known, you need to be liked as well. People will
hire you only if they think that they'll enjoy working with you. I don't
know of anyone who hired a consultant they didn't like. In fact, the
consultants I know are the nicest people ever.

Forgive me for being frank, but you have a knack for pissing people off.
I think you can name more than one person who will never ever hire you.
This is not the right direction.
 
> 4. More time to do the things I like:
> -------------------------------------
Not sure about this one. Independents tend to be more busy than
employees because in addition to their main job duties, they also need
to do marketing, chase clients and force them to pay, etc.
 
> 5. I can see the world:
> -----------------------
Anything prevents you from going to conferences right now?
The only plus side is that the travel expenses will be tax-deductible.


I think you can make a rather good consultant if you can only improve
two things:
1. People skills. Actively try to be very nice and accommodating. You
tend to annoy many people, and those you annoyed will not hire you.
Don't fool yourself - No matter how good you are, people will not hire
you unless they will enjoy working with you.

2. If you want to train people, you'll need to improve your public
speaking skills. I saw you are already working on this.

Thanks,
Chen

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