There used to be an advertisement that called being in the Army “the hardest job you’ll ever love.” You’ve probably met schoolteachers, or possibly nonprofit administrators, who feel the same way. There are some jobs that are tough yet rewarding. Self-employment definitely falls into that category.
Perhaps that’s why so many California contractors never even seriously consider working for someone else once they’ve found a bit of success with their own businesses. How could they? Here are just a few of the things that await you once your construction company gets off the ground:
The potential for much higher pay. Successful contractors typically make several times more money than their traditionally employed counterparts do. And, while there isn’t really any ceiling on what you can earn as a business owner, employees have to justify raises, vacation days, and benefits to employers – including accountants and managers that they may never even meet.
The flexibility to work any kind of schedule. Whatever hours or days you prefer to work, you can bet there is some kind of construction project that matches up. In addition, self-employed professionals can take off extended time if they want, or work extra hours to earn extra money or take on new challenges… and all without getting approval from someone else.
The ability to choose who you work with. If you’ve ever had to work closely with someone whose company you didn’t enjoy, then this benefit really speaks for itself. Personality conflicts occur in every profession, but only self-employed business owners really have the flexibility to decide whether or not a relationship, or construction project, is worth the aggravation it’s causing.
Career control. Although this is often an afterthought to new contractors, it’s something you’ll probably grow to appreciate as you continue working. That’s because what you want to be, or where you want your business to take you, might be a lot different 10 or 20 years down the road than it is today. When you’re self-employed, the choices and decisions are all up to you.
Are you ready to take the first steps toward becoming a licensed California contractor in 2014? If so, don’t waste another second – click here to see the upcoming CSLS course schedule, including a number of self-study options designed to help you prepare for the California licensed contractors exam.
