Jumping Ship
Out of context: Reply #13
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- karj0
It all depends upon how you're geared.
A friend of mine just did exactly what you're talking about, and he's really happy with his choice. (I haven't seen him so relaxed in a long time.) Instead of having to deal with any business development, he can now concentrate solely on creative work—and he also has found time on the side for his own side-projects.
Personally, I could never do it. I haven't worked for an employer in over 15 years, and I don't want anyone else to own my days. (I've learned that one of the keys to my happiness is in not being managed or having to manage others.)
As you know, agencies are really fucking tough to run—particularly small ones, as work tends to be project based (therefore billings are highly variable) and staffing costs can bleed you dry while you're waiting for the next gig to come in.
One possibility you might want to consider, is looking at how to reduce your costs. If you can get down to a one/two person operation, you could run pretty lean. Additionally, you might want to look at where your most profitable work is, and concentrate on developing that a little more. (For example, if you check your past years' records, you might learn that maintenance work or consulting was more profitable than pure design.)
Regardless of whether you're an employee working for others or an owner running your own shop, there are pros and cons. That said, if you can determine what's most important to you (freedom or security), you'll be closer to making the right decision.
One thing to remain mindful of is that either way, you'll be fine.
Asking the questions as you are is wise—you don't want the situation to get to the point that you don't have a say in matters. Nevertheless, if you take that gig, you'll get some breathing room, and gain some perspective. If you stick it out with your agency, you'll find a way to get through, and you'll look back at this as just one more obstacle you overcame.