Can I Return To Permanent Work After Going Freelance?

But why would anyone want to return to a permanent position after working freelance? Being self employed is great (I know first hand), and it certainly holds a number of advantages over having a permanent job.

But there are some cons too... which in turn translate into the positives of being a permanent member of staff right?

Let's dig a little deeper:

Security

Under the current market conditions there may not be too much security in either a permanent or freelance role. Massive layoffs, closures, downsizing and other cost cutting measures are being undertaken in some of the largest and even now, profitable companies.

Four or five years back the 'job security' aspect was definitely skewed in favour of permanent jobs, at least that's the way it seemed anyway. Those freelancers however who have performed well whilst on assignment and have also maintained large network of contacts may not necessarily agree with this.

Monetary benefits

Earning opportunities would largely depend on the kind of work - taking the average person with an average set of skills, the freelancer may actually be able to earn more than a permanent employee, provided he or she is able to market those skills properly and, more importantly, there is a need for them.

Don't forget the perks that are often available to permanent employees. Paid holidays, overtime, insurance, pensions, medical care and so on. A relatively small base salary can sometimes seem quite attractive if you take the time to add up all the 'sundry' employee benefits.

Growth

If career growth is important to you then a permanent job can certainly provide this. Moving up the corporate ladder can be worthwhile but you do need to be hugely driven and often committed to just one company. Freelancers on the other hand, will usually measure growth in personal or financial terms so you could probably argue that it's again a matter of choice

Flexibility (this is the one I like)

As a freelancer, you have far more freedom and flexibility than a permanent employee. Those of us that work from home can do so whenever and wherever we want. It's such a liberating feeling not being bound to a desk 9-5, Monday to Friday.

Freelancers also have the flexibility to arrange their tax affairs however they wish without being automatically included under a company's PAYE scheme.

To conclude

Of course you can return to permanent work after going freelance and it's important not to underestimate the power of leveraging your skills.

As a freelancer, you are exposed to a wide and diverse mix of people, projects and activities. Such experience goes a long way in the eyes of a recruiting manager and can be the foundations of an eye-catching CV, irrespective of whether these skills were acquired whilst working freelance.

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