Why now is the right time to start your own business

You already know the benefits of self-employment: freedom to shape your work and lifestyle, earning potential, and more fulfilling and impactful projects.

But did you know that the environment is particularly favourable for self-employed professionals (SEPs) right now? Timing is everything, and now is the perfect time to get going.

Why you should start your own business this year

Here are three excellent reasons why now is the right time to start your own consulting business.

1. The rise of remote work

With the traditional office model turned on its head, people are used to working with people they rarely see or talk to, and companies are far more willing to hire more remote workers.

This has removed many of the traditional barriers for SEPs. More people than ever are choosing to work on a project-by-project basis rather than in conventional full-time jobs.

2. Economic downturn brings opportunities

An economic downturn or recession can be good news for SEPs for a few reasons:

• Cost cutting: Businesses are looking to cut costs by reducing their full-time staff and will hire on a project-by-project basis.

• Flexibility: SEPs are a great option during an economic downturn as they offer more flexibility and scalability in cost and commitment.

• Diversification: Organisations that look to adapt to a recession are willing to try new ways of working and are more open to new ideas and solutions. This is excellent news for us, as we bring expertise and recommendations.

• Innovation: Companies look for intelligent ways to be more productive and efficient – digital transformation, process improvement and strategic change. We can help with that.

3. Automation and AI are changing the game

As organisations come to terms with how they will incorporate new AI tools into their technology, employment and operational environment, there will be an increased focus on plotting an intelligent way forward and reviewing progress.

Enter the huge opportunity for self-employed professionals! Automation and AI can automate repetitive tasks, but they will never be able to replace the human touch - boosting demand for design, content creation, and strategic consulting.

Agile, adaptive SEPs will see an explosion of opportunities, particularly if they have skills in complex decision-making, quality control, data analysis, auditing or monitoring.

AI tools can perform routine tasks and automate processes, but they are nowhere near capable of strategic thinking. As companies increasingly rely on AI tools, there will be a greater demand for human expertise to provide guidance, evaluate outputs and make strategic decisions.

As AI systems become more sophisticated and are used in more critical applications, there will be a greater need for SEPs with expertise in ethical considerations, such as data privacy, security, and bias.

Critical, creative and strategic human expertise has never been more important - and AI is only going to accelerate that trend. Lucky for us, that’s precisely the stuff that SEPs excel at.

Six reasons why businesses need you right now

Businesses need you and your expertise now more than ever. In an uncertain financial and technological environment, organisations seek expert help to keep them on track.

1. Change

This year brings many economic, social, technological, regulatory and financial changes. As businesses work out how to handle recessions, policy changes and internal shifts… they need your help.

2. Expertise

Hiring every kind of particular expert on staff would be dumb. Not having access to that expertise at all would be even dumber. Clients need your niche insight and best practice now.

3. Independence

When things are stressful, emotions and politics run rampant. External consultants bring the right advice without the attachment, politics and bias that come with internal teams.

4. Flexibility

Teams seek ways to stay innovative and lean as the recession environment takes hold. Paying for only what you need is a great way to do that.

5. Progress

Employees have all manner of internal overhead and dead time. Consultants dedicate attention to the task or project they’re hired for, moving things ahead quicker – critical in ambiguity and pace.

6. Confidentiality

It’s tough at the top. When executives are freaking out about their job, business and future, they don’t have a safe space to turn to. You can be that space.

Now is the time to see if you’re up for the challenge.

Now is the time for self-employed professionals to make their mark on the world, when businesses need you now more than ever. The change, economic environment and emerging challenges with AI and automation mean that organisations need flexible, expert assistance to help them achieve their goals. Are you up for the task?