Does anyone freelance in their field alongside a full time job?

[skirt]

I want to start to dabble in my field as a consultant, building up a business so that in a few years, I can maybe leave my paid job. Has anyone else done that?

Though there's not so much risk doing this, I still feel a bit scared.

when I worked I used to have "homers"
none of us were meant to but the partners were happy so long as they were clients the firm did not want
those homers are the core on which my later business has expanded from

Is that an accountantcy practice? I work as a fundraiser for a large charity and I've done a fair bit of informal stuff for other people over the years, free of charge but keep on being asked so thought I'd try and be more businesslike, and charge a fee. Just a bit nervous I guess .

it was indeed an accountancy practice
we were not allowed to be paid in money (as per our contracts) but barter and in kind were deemed fine.
As soon as I resigned I started charging real money

I work as a freelance trainer outside my day job but I only work part time. I had to ask for my employers permission to do this. It's great and is building up nicely at the moment. I get paid about 3 weeks salary for 1 days work so that part of it is great too.

I got some good advice from somebody at the beginning who said not to charge to little or you won't be valued.

Hmmmm thanks both, that's interesting to know folks do it. Bite the bullet, J and get on with it....

I started freelancing and at the same time reduced my employment to part-time - it certainly focussed my mind! I'd say that if you're planning to make a switch then you should be professional from the start:

• charge a proper rate
• have proper terms and conditions and a contract
• make sure you have enough time to do the additional work to a good standard, and to meet deadlines

Good luck, if it's the right thing for you, it's a great way to work.

skirt, this is exactly what I'm actively planing on doing. Hopefully, I'll be turning work away so will have to leave the day job.

Yep, when I had 'just' 2 children I was almost FT as a property solicitor and also did freelance journalism. I've since had 2 more children and now work soley as a freelance.