Do you think being self employed is a strong career choice?
is it seen positively or negatively in the employment market?
Re: Being self employed first choice or last?
Depends on your work ethic to be honest. I personally plan on opening up my own clinic (I'm a doctor) after I've made some connections at the hospital where I'm currently working. I think it would be great for me personally as I can set up my own hours and have time for my family as well. It's a lot of money you have to save initially though to build up your own practice/business in the beginning but with hard work it can be done and you can enjoy other aspects of your life too without taking orders from a boss. Both my parents are self-employed and I've always liked the life they've made for themselves. They work very hard but save time for themselves too and enjoy work and family.
The main downfall in Canada with self employment is you need a good track record, at least 2-3 years depending on the bank to get a mortgage for buying a house, etc. There's also a lot of added costs and sometimes you have to spend A LOT of time working on your business for it to get started up in the beginning. My husband is also self employed and weekends are sometimes fair game to work, it's a sacrifice you have to be willing to make to make a good living down the line.
As for the job market, self employment in Canada is generally viewed as a positive because it opens up more jobs if you hire others down the line. And with the recent lack of jobs out there and more grads and immigrants, having a job where you are your own boss can be a great thing.
Re: Being self employed first choice or last?
It largely depends on your qualifications. Being self-employed as a doctor comes a bit easier (everyone gets sick, right?) than say, being self-employed as an engineer. In an ideal world, everyone would want to be their own boss, and benefit from the comfort that comes with it. But while self-employment can be rewarding in the long run, initially, it does have a lot of pitfalls, which is why it is almost necessary to have some employment experience before venturing into your own business.
As a self-employed person, you have to struggle to get to that monthly minimum mark needed for your regular expenses. You are responsible for things like medical care/insurance, pension funds, housing etc, things we largely take for granted when working for a company.
However, the flexibility, freedom and luxury that comes with being your own boss is also unmatched. Work at your own schedule. Make as much or as little as you can. Spend more time with family. Take a day off in the middle of the week etc.