Job security

In times of economic uncertainty, is it safer to get a job than be a solo pro?

I was talking with a wisened old-timer in the accountancy game about this at a networking event. He said that he and three friends all graduated university at the same time and went into the workforce. Fifteen years later, three were employed in 'secure' jobs at 'big' firms, one was self-employed.

Then the crash came.

The self-employed guy lost 50% of his revenue.

The other three lost their jobs entirely.

The 'security' of working for an existing organisation is actually just a belief that someone else is better-equipped than you to keep you safe. For some people, it’s possible that’s true. But for talented, resourceful folks, working for yourself and creating a powerful personal brand is the most secure form of employment there is.