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Making the Leap: From Full-Time Employed to Self-Employed Carer


If you’re thinking about becoming a self-employed carer but still holding on to your full-time employed role, you’re not alone. Making that leap can feel like a huge step, especially when you’ve been in the same routine, with the same hours, and that sense of “security” a traditional job promises. But here’s the thing—making the shift to self-employed care isn’t about diving in headfirst without a plan. It's about making a thoughtful transition, and trust me, it’s possible to do it without breaking a sweat. (But for full disclousre this isn't how I did it, i just lept and gave myself a month to get it going! And guess what...it worked!!)


Here are some strategies to help you make that shift smoothly and confidently, rather than just jumping off from the deep end!



1. Start by Dipping Your Toes in the Water


One of the biggest myths about becoming self-employed is that you have to quit your job immediately and start from scratch. Not true! Start small—build up a side client base while keeping your current job. You don’t need to go all-in straight away. This gives you the time and space to figure out if self-employment is really for you without the financial panic of losing your main income stream.


How to do it: Pick up a client or two on your days off or weekends. This will help you get a feel for self-employed life and build your reputation while still having the safety net of your full-time job.



2. Establish Your Unique Services


If you're going to stand out as a self-employed carer, you need to know what sets you apart. When you’re working for a company, you're one of many, but as a self-employed carer, you are the business! Define your niche. Is it elderly care? Disability support? Maybe you’re a pro at dementia care or specialise in palliative care. Having a clear service offering will make it easier for you to market yourself and attract clients.


How to do it: Take some time to map out your strengths. What type of care are you most passionate about? What kind of clients would you love to work with? Once you've got that figured out, tailor your marketing efforts to reflect your specialty.






3. Get Your Finances in Order


Money is often the scariest part of self-employment. When you’re employed, you know that paycheck is coming every month, but when you're self-employed, it can be more unpredictable at first. The trick here is to plan for the ebb and flow of income.


How to do it: Get a grip on your finanaces,how much money do you actually need to live on? Can you scale back an unnecessaries for the time being? Start saving a financial cushion that can cover a few months of living expenses, so you don’t feel pressured to accept every client or worry about having lean months. You can also gradually scale your hours with clients while reducing your full-time work hours. It’s like having a soft landing before you fully switch over.



4. Network and Build Your Reputation Early


When you’re employed, clients are handed to you. When you’re self-employed, you’re responsible for finding them. This might sound daunting, but here’s the thing: your network is your goldmine. It’s not about selling; it’s about letting people know that you’re available, reliable, and offering a service they genuinely need.


How to do it: Reach out to local care groups, friends, family, and any clients you’ve worked with in the past. Let them know you're branching out and available for work. Word of mouth is huge in care! Being part of a Professional Carers Network (hint, hint!) also gives you a platform to connect with others who can refer you.


5. Work with a Buddy


Here’s a tip you might not have considered—team up with a "work buddy." Having a fellow self-employed carer to work with can offer flexibility and give you both the ability to cover 7 days a week for clients. This makes it easier to provide continuous care while still giving each other time off. It also opens up more opportunities for clients who need round-the-clock care, and helps when you're just starting out and need the extra support. Plus, it’s a great way to share tips, divide up responsibilities, and support each other along the way.


How to do it: Think of all the people you have previously worked with or know who you like and trust, and ideally live close by to you too! Ask them! Point them in the direction of the Professional Carers Network so they can begin to understand the model of care you want to do. It works really well when you can buddy up with a friend, that is how I did it!



5. Make the Mental Shift


This might be the hardest part—changing your mindset. We’re often told that being employed is safer, but once you realise that being your own boss gives you freedom and control over your career, the idea of working for someone else can start to feel limiting. The mental leap to self-employment is understanding that you now create your own safety net through the decisions you make.


How to do it: Take some time to visualise what your life could look like as a self-employed carer. Flexibility, control, and building real relationships with clients—on your terms. Imagine how much more fulfilling it can be when you call the shots.




6. Know When to Leap


Finally, there will come a point when you know it's time to let go of your full-time job. The moment when you’ve built a stable client base, your confidence is high, and you’re financially ready. It’s all about timing—and trust yourself when the time feels right.


How to do it: Set a date or a goal that signals when you’re ready. Maybe it’s when you’ve reached a certain amount of savings or when your client list is as full as it can be with you working a full time job too! Once you hit that goal, make the leap with confidence. You’ll never regret taking control of your career.



Ready to Take the Leap?


Making the shift from full-time employed to self-employed doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it’s about making smart, strategic decisions and setting yourself up for success before you even hand in that notice. And when you’re ready, the freedom and fulfillment you’ll find on the other side will be worth every step.


Need more support? Join the Professional Carers Network! We’re here to help you every step of the way on your self-employment journey—from setting up your business to building lasting relationships with clients. Let’s make your career as a self-employed carer not just a job, but a thriving, fulfilling business. You've got this!

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