10 Things I Miss By Not Working for Someone Else

Working as a Structural Engineering sole trader has many benefits. I do love working for myself and being the master of my own destiny. Also, I am very fortunate that the area I work - St Albans Hertfordshire, is jammed full of friendly Architects, Builders, business owners and a wealth of construction opportunities to keep me busy.

BUT

It's been 7 months now, and there is a list of things which I miss about not working for someone else:

1. Free Stuff!! Pens, pencils, rubbers, free Blackberry, paper print-outs of my holiday insurance documents etc. etc.
2. Paid Holiday. That lovely feeling whilst you are on holiday, that you are still clocking up the hours. It's a tough life - relaxing.
3. Office Banter. Nothing beats a Monday morning catch-up session with your work mates over a coffee or 2 [free of course], or to share a juicy bit of gossip. It's good to share ideas and your worries.
4. Work Parties! Get togethers, Christmas Do's and lunch-times down the pub. Socialising is a great way to get to know your work colleagues, and of course feed the rumour-mill.
5. Holiday and Birthday Cakes. It's only free if you don't go on holiday or have a timely 'sickie' on your birthday, every year. Swings and roundabouts this one.
6. Professional/Institution Fees Paid! More free stuff for us engineers and technicians.
7. Protection from the Crowd. If you surround yourself with less than competent staff, you can look ace, and it's funny when others c0ck it up... and not you this time ;-)
8. Training and CPD. You are given countless opportunities both on and off company time to learn and to grow. Lunch-time CPD seminars with a free lunch! Who cares if you have no interest in what is being presented. It's paid for by the business.
9. Expenses Paid. Travel, meals and safety equipment, all paid for by the business you work for.
10. Being Thanked. My favourite one this. I miss being thanked for doing a great job and seeing, and hearing appreciation from colleagues, bosses, and graduates for the hard work that I put in.

If you can think of anything else to add, then please comment below.

Look out for our Friday Blog Post as usual tomorrow.


Engine[er]