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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Original poster

AIBU to consider self-employment in bookkeeping or part-time marketing?

3 replies

Careerhelpppppp · 07/08/2026 10:40

Currently a SAHM with young children (none in full time school yet!) but thinking about what I can do once I have more time with the children at school.

My previous career was in Marketing (although I didn’t particularly enjoy this). I’ve been out of work for 5 years and would struggle competing against younger people straight out of uni now, especially as I would require the role to be fairly flexible.

I have a 2:1 degree, A levels etc.

I am considering setting up my own business/going self employed. My options are:

Retraining as a bookkeeper/accountant/financial advisor/financial planner. I thought I could maybe start pretty basic, and complete more qualifications as I go on, and as the kids get older.

Taking on small businesses who don’t want a full time Marketing Manager, but who want to do some form of marketing activity.

Anyone with any experiences of doing either of these?

I’d like to work perhaps 10 hours per week, and up that to 20 once the kids are a little older.

Thanks!

OP posts:
Howyoudoings · 07/08/2026 11:39

I think the only issue is AI are taking over and many small companies can no do this themselves. With help from AI and apps.

ComtesseDeSpair · 07/08/2026 11:57

If you’ve a marketing background and aren’t looking for full-time work then I’d definitely look into fractional in the first instance - or at least whilst you’re retraining. I know a couple of fractional marketers who do pretty well: many companies are cutting down or freezing hiring for full time roles because they believe AI can replace a lot of juniors, but do want somebody to do project-based work who has the more strategic knowledge of running a campaign, principles, optimisation etc.

Original poster
Careerhelpppppp · 07/08/2026 12:23

ComtesseDeSpair · 07/08/2026 11:57

If you’ve a marketing background and aren’t looking for full-time work then I’d definitely look into fractional in the first instance - or at least whilst you’re retraining. I know a couple of fractional marketers who do pretty well: many companies are cutting down or freezing hiring for full time roles because they believe AI can replace a lot of juniors, but do want somebody to do project-based work who has the more strategic knowledge of running a campaign, principles, optimisation etc.

Edited

The thing is, I feel really unconfident in leading a campaign. In theory I’m fine, but the actual doing would really worry me. I’ve had nearly the same amount of time out of work as I have actually working (excluding non career jobs).

OP posts:
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