Thinking of going independent? Five lessons before you make the leap

For communications professionals considering self-employment, preparing for the financial realities matters as much as knowing the job.

By Manpreet Dhesi

“How did you get started? I’m thinking of going out on my own...”

I’m hearing this question often from communications professionals working for themselves. Some are facing redundancy; others feel their opportunities for progression have narrowed. They know they can do the work. What they are less sure about is how to make independent working sustainable.

I recognise that uncertainty.

I started my business at the end of 2019, frustrated by a lack of career progression. People kept telling me that my communications, project and change management skills would translate into independent work. Eventually, I decided to find out.

Seven years later, I’m still working independently. But being good at your job and being prepared to run a business are two different things. Here are five things I would tell anyone considering making the move today.

1. Know what replacing your salary actually means

My first piece of advice is not to commission a website. It is to work out your numbers.

What does your household need each month? How much should you set aside for retirement? How will you cover holidays, illness or a quiet period? What does that mean for your mortgage or rent, childcare and other commitments?

Then work backwards.

How much income will you need to generate, allowing for business costs and tax? How much paid work will it take to achieve that?

I had previously owned a coffee shop, which taught me the difference between managing a budget and generating the income needed to keep a business running. Customers had to come through the door before we could pay the rent, staff and suppliers.

The same discipline applies to consultancy. A promising conversation isn't confirmed work, and sending an invoice isn't the same as having the money in your account.

2. Build the foundations before you leave, if you can

I had six months to prepare before leaving employment. I used annual leave to meet people, discuss their needs and explore projects. By the time I left, I had two substantial projects lined up.

Then the pandemic arrived, and both were paused. Preparation helped, but it couldn’t remove the uncertainty.

Not everyone considering going freelance will have six months to prepare. Make the most of whatever time you do have, while respecting your employment obligations. Reconnect with people, understand where your expertise could be useful and start exploring potential opportunities.

I also had a small group of people who knew me both professionally and personally. They became a valuable sounding board: people I could test decisions with, rather than expect to make those decisions for me.

3. Start lean, not perfectly packaged

It is tempting to make setting up a business feel productive by spending money on things: a brand identity, a sophisticated website or another project management subscription.

I would prioritise conversations, a clear explanation of what you offer and a straightforward way to manage your finances.

Keep your initial overheads low. Spend where there is a clear need, rather than because something makes you feel more like a business owner. Get appropriate advice on your business structure and legal and financial obligations, but do not confuse elaborate systems with being ready to trade.

You can develop your website and brand identity as you learn more about what clients actually need. You do not need to have every answer on day one.

4. Tell people what you do now

Having a strong professional network helps, but people may still associate you with an earlier version of your career.

Someone who knows you for producing marketing materials may not automatically think of you when a major change programme needs support. You have to explain how your work has developed, using examples that demonstrate the value you bring.

I have learned this partly by accepting work that I already knew I did not want. Just because you are capable of doing something does not mean it is the right work for you.

Be clear about what you offer, what you want to do more of and what you no longer want to take on.

Knowing your numbers makes these conversations easier, too. When you understand what you need to earn, you are better placed to discuss fees and decide whether an opportunity is worth pursuing.

Leaving employment can also mean stepping away from a familiar job title and organisation. But you are not starting from scratch. Your experience, relationships and previous work still count. The challenge is helping people understand how that expertise translates into the services you offer now.

5. Accept the uncomfortable parts and make the most of the freedom

I dislike selling. I also dislike having to be visible online. Neither feeling has conveniently disappeared.

What helps is thinking less about promoting myself and more about helping people understand what I can contribute. Some conversations lead nowhere. Some proposals are rejected. I take what I can from the experience and move on.

I have also learned that flexibility takes practice.

In the early days, it can feel wrong to leave your desk when there is no work to do. Now, Fridays are softer. I make time for yoga, and advisory and board work sit alongside client projects.

That freedom matters, but so does the discipline needed to make it work.

Would I make the leap again? Yes. I would avoid some of the projects I took on, but the mistakes have strengthened my judgement and confidence.

So, before you commission that website, open a spreadsheet. Knowing your craft matters. Understanding what it takes to earn a living from it matters just as much.

A colour photo of Manpreet Dhesi, smiling and wearing a yellow jumper.