Returning to work after self employment

lcharm

Hi guys just wondering if anyone has any advice about returning to work after a period of self-emplyoment?

I'm 26 and for me it's been just over 2 years since my last job and i've been running a business since then which I can't really afford to keep going much longer (or possibly just keep it as a sideline).

I've achieved a significant amount of skill and experience while in this business but I'm worried prospective employers will see it as a 2 year gap and/or I've failed at the business.

I feel references will be an issue as I guess I can only really call on referees from my previous job?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

lcharm

Hmm... has nobody got any advice whatsoever??

Make-it-3

Running your own business requires a number of different skills, if you think about it you've probably gained much more experience doing that than you would have in employment in the last two years. As to why you are no longer doing it, It's about how you position it at interview, be positive but honest, say you've gained a lot but in the current climate it's just not feasible, but also give some good reasons why you are happy to return to being a worker, so they don't think you are just looking for a stop gap job.

Don't leave a gap on your CV, say you were running your business and what that involved.

Good luck.

Horace

As the other poster has said, don't leave a gap on your CV say that you have been running a business.

Not sure what your business is but have you thought of networking as a way of possibly getting more customers? I network online and attend the occasional breakfast meeting with a group called 4networking.biz and that is slowly bringing me in some clients. If you can keep your self employment going even as a sideline that will help because its a shame to ditch it altogether.

lcharm

Cheers guys!

Horace I've put a lot of money into marketing and attening networking events (plus several other costly mistakes!) so this is my primary mortivation to return to work, however as I'm in a consumer based service driven business a lot of my clients want me to visit on weekends and weekday evenings so it may be viable as a sideline which I hope to do.

Thanks again much appreciated!

Uncertain

This doesn't apply to everybody but you may find having a "normal" job difficult after being your own boss. Even if you have been working all hours and not taking any holiday (as is common) you will lose an important sense of freedom if you end up taking a job you don't really want.

Is this the best thing for you?

You mention carrying on with your business as a sideline, presumably because you can find some work but not enough for full time?

Have you thought about doing something else on a self employed / freelance basis in addition, rather than finding a 9 to 5 job?

Often people forget this possibility, but it generally give more flexibility to take on any of the types of work you would really like as jobs come along.

PlutoinCapricorn

I agree with Uncertain: I am self employed myself, and have been for much of my life. I did go back on the payroll at one point, but escaped as soon as I could. Freedom is much more important than the regular salary and higher income.

There are several issues here: what area should you be seeking employment in, how to explain the gap to potential employers, and how you will cope if and when you get a job. The latter point is very important.

Of course, some people are attracted by the idea of having their on business, become self employed, realise that it isn't for them so return to the PAYE world.
Only you know what is best for you. Getting a job and keeping on your business for spare time work seems like a good option.

lcharm

Thanks guys, well it's a tough decision and you're right I'm getting enough to justify self-employment in the part time but not full. Plus i've made some costly mistakes (with my business partner) and I can't afford to explore any other s/e opportunities otherwise I could drive myself deep into debt.

I was in a field sales position with a car & benefits before so I get an element of freedom just not total freedom!

sodamnfunky

I am SE, have been for the past 5 years, and previous to that had a spell of 3 years SE.
I am looking for full time employed work, as I hate not only being SE, but also the job I do.

I was worrying myself about similar things to you, but when I wrote down all the skills I have obtained from being SE, I have far more than most people who are employed. I do all my admin, accounts, tax returns, pricing,tendering etc etc. Plus the people skills I have developed, not to mention management skills.
My problem is getting that down on paper, ina concise way, and not letting my CV become cluttered and repetitive.