6 years self employment– where did that time go?

My freelancing journey for those considering this option for themselves…

In the last ten years or so, and particularly in the post-pandemic era, the opportunities for fundraisers to contribute to good causes as freelancers have really expanded. The willingness of charities to tap into this resource and the desire of fundraisers to operate in this way have come together to create a vibrant marketplace for short-term assignments. If you are thinking about taking the step yourself, I hope the following reflections may prove helpful.

In November 2018 I reported for duty at RNID (then called Action on Hearing Loss before reverting to its former name) for my first interim fundraising position. I was providing additional management resource in the Individual Giving team, while recruitment for two fundraising management posts was underway.

It was a really good first gig, with a great team, and it was a helpful introduction to working for myself, following nearly 4 years as Director of Fundraising at two hospice charities.

It was also the first time in my career that I had been outside of the considerable comfort of a salaried position, so it was quite a big change. Adding to the feeling of risk was the fact that my wife is self-employed, so having the security of a monthly salary, paid holiday, and pension contributions for at least one of us had always felt reassuring for our domestic economy!

So, what have I learned, what would I do differently, and what might you consider if you’re taking the plunge yourself?

It turns out I have more to share on this than I realised, so, because no one reads monster blog posts, I’m going to break it into sections and post one each week during my anniversary month:

Post #1 – setting up, billing and record-keeping

Post #2 – Getting work and securing repeat business

Post #3– working with others, positioning your offering and the value of pro bono work

Post #4 – Work / life balance vs the stress of uncertainty

Post 1 goes up tomorrow – I hope it’s useful to you or someone you know.