Posted March 30th, 2009 by richard in Installers Life
I have always worked for one company. It fits my lifestyle, but I have always wondered if it would be better to work freelance. There are a number of issues involved, but I think it comes down to your personality and your willingness to take risks.
[more after the break]
Working For One Company
When you work for one company you get the chance to build up loyalty and you don't have the pressures of working as a freelancer. Often times your company will provide you with benefits such as insurance and tools. Your book of work becomes solid and you can count on work year over year. When new projects come along often times you are the first person to be called. You become part of a team, but if the company goes down often times you are out in the cold.
Freelancing
Being a freelance installer is what many choose to do. They open up a small company and then pick up work with different exhibit houses or even run their own jobs. In many cases they can build up loyalty with exhibit houses and install the same exhibits year after year. They have to provide their own personal insurance and tools but they often can charge a much higher rate since their "clients" (exhibit houses etc.) don't have to pay them benefits. They also have the benefit of being able write off their expenses and they can't do that as an employee. The downside is the hassle and a lack of job security.
What do you think? Did I leave something out? Do you think there is an upside to being a freelance installer? Would you rather work for one company and the security that comes with that?
