I was going to start this post with something like, “How to Know It’s Time to Say Sayonara to Freelancing and Take That Full-Time Job” but I realized I’m no expert in the area. I am, however, going through this same situation and know other freelancers who are going through it as well. The question we’re all asking ourselves is, “Do we sacrifice our freelance freedom for regular pay at full-time job?”
Taking the big leap from freelance to full-time won’t be easy. Knowing that, it’s wise to take some time to weigh the pros and cons before you commit to something you’ll regret later. Here are a list of keen questions to help guide you in the right direction:
Is this your dream job? If it’s a yes, you might want to consider taking the job. Sure you’ll be sacrificing a flex schedule but if you’re sacrificing it for something you love, it may be worth it. Also you might be able to talk to your future supervisor about telecommuting or ask about the flexibility of your schedule.
Will this job take me one step closer to my dream job? If you answered no to the above question, don’t rule it out just yet. If you want to work for an eco-friendly magazine as a staff writer and you are offered a position as an editorial assistant for a garden pub, consider the job as an invaluable experience to the world of publishing. If, however, you’re debating whether to take that full-time job as a fundraising coordinator because you have the experience and need the money, be conscious of the fact that you may be taking two steps back instead of forward toward your dream career.
How much do you need the green? If your financial situation is dire, taking any full-time position may seem preferential than no job at all. However, if you’re considering this next position purely as a source of income, you may want to find out if a) you will still have the time and energy to continue to write on the side b) if you have the ability to get a part-time job instead c) if there are other full-time positions that are more closely related to your dream job d) if it pays enough to justify sacrificing your freelance freedom.
The first two questions lead up to this one, “What are your priorities?” At this stage in your life, is spending time with your kids more important than a steady income or vice versa? Talk to your significant other or best pal to discuss what’s important to you. Knowing this will help guide your decision.
Will this job help your writing career in some way? A short-term stint as a research assistant or a private investigator may give you important research skills or an insider’s perspective that may one day help fuel a future novel. On the other hand, taking a permanent position in finance may be more advantageous if you’re thinking of being a financial writer.
What will this job be like a year from now? Unless you’re psychic you won’t know for sure how things will turn out. But you can imagine how it might be. Visualize sitting in that cubicle or blogging about a particular topic day in and day out. Does the image make you cringe or smile? There, you got your answer.
Weigh what’s the most important thing to you in your life against the benefits of this full-time position. The bottom line is that while this is an important decision, it is not a life or death one. Think carefully but remember if this one doesn’t work out, there’s probably another one waiting in the wings.
Hi Brandi:
For each individual, this is really a personal choice. I left Corporate America after 30+ years and although it has not been easy, I know I made the right choice for me.
Recently, I helped organize an event for San Diego’s IABC group. We had guest panelists for a topic called, “Surviving an Economic Downturn -Professionally and Personally.”
Something one of the panelists said really resonated with me. He, too, is an independent writer with his own business. He said, “When planning to freelance, I said to myself, ‘the worst thing that can happen, I’ll have to go back & get a corporate job.'”
That just socked me in the gut. I realized that, for me, that just was not an option. So, I decided to give this my best shot. Sometimes, just refocusing and doing the necessary planning helps me get over my tough times.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I wish success- professionally & personally – to everyone. Follow your heart.
Thanks Cathy! Your comment was very insightful. It is a difficult decision and a personal one, yet it’s great to get such great advice from a fellow freelancer. Also, I checked out your website-you have a beautiful blog.