However, this is just one form of self-employment. The advantage of this kind of work is the opportunity to be the boss, be near family, and in the case of a craftsperson, have the freedom of self-expression. The most significant drawback to home workers is the isolation from others. Consulting is another form of self-employment. A consultant works with a variety of individuals and organizations that need the consultant's expertise, but do not want to take on another employee.
Consultants have the advantage of great variety in their work.
They often travel and are able to interact with diverse groups of people. On the other hand, consultants also have to know and understand all kinds of organizations in order to serve them effectively. Jan told us that going out on her own was very scary. However, she was becoming more and more unhappy with the bureaucracy at the state agency where she was employed. She was sure she could keep her job until retirement age, but not sure she could stand to stay in the agency for that long.