Hi, I have just taken the plunge and gone back to full time employment after being freelance for four years. Basically, one of my clients who I did a lot of work for offered me a permanent part time position 4 days a week. It took me a long time to decide whether to do this and in the end I went with it and so far, so good.
Benefits:
basically,I was in a good negotiating position as they asked me to work for them, suddenly I have health cover, a pension and just had my eyes tested all for nothing, all of the above I had been very slack on as a freelancer. Also general feeling of security, a guaranteed income every month, not having to work all hours of the night, and of course no more invoicing/accounts etc. Also I can actually take holidays rather than worry how to pay the mortgage while not working.
The down side:
Having to commute into an office, having a boss, less variety of work, losing independence and of course money - I have taken a dip in earnings and being PAYE means that you pay more tax as you can't claim expenses. However, at least you know what you will get every month.
One thing I will recommend is that if you are interested in going back on the books of a company try and get a part time position, as you can be employed and self-employed at the same time - best of both worlds!!!
I have been freelance for past four years and my biggest client has offered me a part time permanent position 4 days a week. The salary they are offering is quite a bit less than what I have earned from them on a freelance basis, but offers all the perks ie pension, paid holidays, health cover. I am a bit reluctant to go back to being employed, as I have enjoyed the freedom of freelance work, but don't want to lose the client as they are the main sorce of my income. Any suggestions as to what I should do?
