The number of sectors and occupations where self-employment opportunities can be found is almost limitless for new graduates. Here are some of the more common examples. Information technology (IT)Home computers, small businesses that cannot afford full-time IT people, and organisations that need to augment their computer staff for different projects, present fantastic openings for those who want to be self-employed. Opportunities for new graduates are reasonable, especially in web design/development and IT training, but less so in contracting. See the case study for further information. Job roles include: back to top The visual artsGraduates in fine art, craft, visual and design disciplines sometimes become self-employed by choice, more often through necessity. Examples of jobs include: Income from sales and commissions may not be enough to live off. Many people take part-time jobs to support their practice. back to top Health and exerciseThis category consists of: - practitioners who could stay within the National Health Service (NHS) but prefer to work for themselves, all or part of the time;
- practitioners outside the mainstream health service who combine part-time NHS work and private referrals;
- providers of complementary therapies;
- providers of sports-related therapies.
The range of jobs is wide, for example: Jobs covered by the Health Professions Council usually require a year in the NHS before setting up on your own. back to top The mediaA significant number of people working in media industries are self-employed, freelance or on short-term contracts. The sector is extremely competitive and it is common to have to ‘pitch’ for work. Job areas include: back to top The performing artsSelf-employment is the norm for performers and some technicians. They need to be proactive, approaching venues or putting together ensembles. Examples of jobs include: Luck, and being in the right place at the right time may play as big a part as talent and hard work, but getting a foot on the ladder can be a lengthy process. back to top Business and the lawSelf-employed consultants provide expertise across a variety of commercial services. Locum work (short-term cover for time-bound periods) is also possible. Job roles include: It is rare, but not unknown, to make an impact without a previous professional background and postgraduate qualification. back to top Other occupationsExamples include: - photography;
- language translation;
- freelance teaching;
- wine importing;
- sub-aqua diving instruction.
This list is only limited by your imagination! More information about the occupations mentioned can be found in explore types of jobs.
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