Full-time job or own business – what to choose?

Full-time job or own business – what is better? Everyone has a different opinion. According to data from the Central Statistical Office, just in 2018 a total of 380 thousand people decided to become entrepreneurs. That is the number of new companies that appeared in the market. Almost 80% of the population works for someone else. Which to choose? Check out the most important pros and cons of having a full-time job and operating your own business.

Working hours

An employment contract specifies a precise number of working hours per week. Working five days a week until 4 p.m. and having weekends free – sounds good. Do you do overtime? You can have time off in lieu on another day or receive additional compensation.

Your own business often means unlimited working time. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week? Each company has different rules. It is difficult to predict what will be true for your company. One thing is certain – flexible working time allows you to choose when to start and end working. You don’t have to adapt to existing rules.

See also: 8 mistakes mady by entrepreneurs

Remuneration

Permanent employment offers you the peace of mind that you will receive a fixed amount every month. You know what salary to expect and when it will be credited to your bank account.

Your own business usually means higher earnings. If your business is flourishing, you may expect profits that are several times the amount you would receive in a full-time job. Are you a freelancer? All your earnings are yours. Don’t forget additional cost if you have employees. Cons? Each month may bring different financial results – you are never certain how much money will go to your bank account at the end of the day.

Responsibilities

A full-time worker comes to work and… does their job. No worries about bookkeeping, taxes or contracts with business partners. There are people responsible for that at the company.

In their resume a sole proprietor may as well include the role “one-man band”. Apart from their professional duties, they need to dabble in marketing, branding, administration and if they have employees – also human resources. The to-do-list is often much longer than you would expect. That is why it might be a good idea to outsource certain duties to another company. Such duties may include bookkeeping and we advise you not to cheap out on it, as tax office inspections tend to be stressful.

Holiday leaves

According to legal regulations, a person employed under an employment contract has the right to 20 leave of absence days and after a ten-year service – 26 days. With most companies, an employee is required to take a longer leave of at least two weeks once a year; it might be a good idea to plan it as early as in January. The good news is that leave of absence is paid.

If you are your own boss, you may take leave whenever you want. You do not need to consult it with anyone. Leave of absence limits do not apply to you as well, unless you work in the services sector and your clients expect you to be available all year round. Just remember: no work – no money.

Security

Permanent employment gives you a sense of security. Depending on your contract, you may expect steady employment, a monthly salary, as well as health and social benefits. Having a permanent employment contract makes you credible for banks and consequently – you may apply for a bank loan.

You should not expect to be successful at the very start of your business. You never know if your business will take off and grow. That is why you need several emergency plans when you decide to start your own business.

Read also: Hot desk or private office? Which to choose?

Boss

When employed, you are accountable to your manager, team leader or boss. Even if your manager is an outstanding person, you are still accountable to them and under their supervision. A contract usually requires you to work for the benefit of your team and brand.

When you have your own business, you are your own boss. You are not accountable to anyone. You do not need to explain yourself. You are the rule-maker. You work on your own behalf and develop your own brand.

Want to be self-employed and looking for a coworking in Warsaw? Or maybe the company that employs you is looking for an office in the capital’s center? Click here and check out Solutions.Rent offices.