Modern Work

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Freelancers / Contractors / Independent Professionals / Self-Employed ISSUE 11 £3.95

BRINGING HOME THE BREAD Liz Wilson discusses why she set up her microbakery and bread school

WRITE WAY FORWARD

Why more and more women are working for themselves in journalism

ARE YOU SHELFEMPLOYED? How to find love when you are married to your career?

EDITOR

Jyoti Rambhai

jyoti.rambhai@ipse.co.uk MEDIA CONSULTANT Jim Cassidy

DESIGN

Martin Harling-Coward

REPORTERS

Tristan Grove Christina McLean Jessica Hayden Inna Yordanova Chloé Jepps Stuart Ulrich Ryan Barnett

Front cover

Former school teacher, Liz Wilson, discusses her journey to opening a bread school.

See page 5 for full story

CONTRIBUTORS Ashley Cowburn Gemma Church Benedict Smith Kate Taylor

PHOTOGRAPHY

CPG Photography Katie Stover Media

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Modern work or IPSE does not necessarily agree with, nor guarantee the accuracy of statements made by contributors or accept any responsibility for any statements, which are expressed in the publication.

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Newsflash “This wasn’t a slam dunk by HMRC by any stretch of the imagination. It was a split decision. This case shows how confusing and unfit for purpose IR35 is.”

Andy Chamberlain IPSE's deputy director of policy Full story p.11

modern work

Contents INTERVIEW Liz Wilson on setting up her bread school

05

RESEARCH How much holiday do you take?

08

NEWS High Court rules against BBC presenters in latest IR35 case

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NEWS Female journalists turn to freelancing

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RESEARCH The reasons why people choose to become self-employed

15

BUSINESS AND FINANCE What does a no-deal Brexit mean?

16

INTERVIEW Ishita and Will on managing a side-hustle

18

FROM THE LOBBY Is Westminster crumbling?

22 24

LIFESTYLE Are you struggling with imposter syndrome?

32

LIFESTYLE Tech review: A crafty keyboard

27

LIFESTYLE Taking care of your mental health

34

LIFESTYLE Is your love life sitting on the shelf?

28

EVENTS The events that could benefit you

38

LIFESTYLE Five stars for Leeds co-working space

Santander opens it's first UK co-working space in Leeds and Modern Work gave it top marks in almost everything.

Full story p.24

The Great British… bread making, political upheaval and more A word from the editor

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rom the chaos that has been surrounding Westminster this last month to the smell of freshly baked bread, Modern Work has everything covered this autumn. Our from the lobby section covers the latest updates on what’s happening in parliament and how this could affect small businesses. There's a guide on how freelancers can prepare for a no-deal Brexit.

And we also report on the latest IR35 case, in which the High Court ruled against three BBC

September/ October 2019

presenters who claimed to be self-employed.

As always, it’s not all about politics. This edition, we speak to micro-baker and owner of Ma Baker bread school, Liz Wilson, about her journey into self-employment. And that’s not all: check out her easy white dough recipe – a nice way to break up your day and relieve some stress if you work from home.

We also delve into mental health from several angles. Kate Taylor offers advice on finding love as a freelancer to combat loneliness; Benedict Smith

discusses the importance of looking after your mental wellbeing; and Gemma Church looks at imposter syndrome. Whatever your interest, you'll find something in this issue.

Jyoti Rambhai EDITOR

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Doughing it alone Jessica Hayden spends a day at the Ma Baker bread school with micro-baker Liz Wilson

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n my way to meet the owner of Ma Baker, I listened to the Boney M song of the same name, wondering if when I got to the door, I would be aggressively greeted with its opening lyrics: “Freeze, I’m Ma Baker, put your hands in the air and give me all your money.”

Instead, I was met by the warm Liz, who with open arms and a soft Australian accent, welcomed me into her beautiful home in Parsons Green, West London.

I was expecting this bakery school to be in a big industrial kitchen, but I couldn’t have been more wrong. The class takes place around Liz’s kitchen table – surrounded by photos of her family.

“I think that’s why the classes are popular,” says the mum of two. “You leave knowing you can replicate this all at home.” On every surface in sight sit awards for Liz’s creations.

“My buckwheat crackers have just won a Great Taste Award,” Liz proudly tells me. I wonder where she will find the room for it.

Standing around the kitchen table with two other novice bakers, our ingredients laid in front of us and our aprons on, Liz began to teach us all about bread.

“I did a bread course around six years ago, but

September/ October 2019

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© CPG Photography

I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with it as much as I have. I used to be a primary school teacher, and baking bread was just something I did for fun.”

It’s easy to see Liz’s previous career shine through – she is a natural teacher.

“Did you ever expect to be teaching people how to bake bread?” I ask.

“It was the biggest shock of my life,” Liz laughs, “I love teaching because there is something so special about sharing something you love with other people.”

After she took her initial bread course, Liz volunteered in bakeries and schools to learn more, before baking for customers every Saturday and teaching bread classes herself for one day a month. Then, as her business grew, she went part-time at the school, before eventually deciding to “take bread full-time”.

The first thing Liz taught us was how to make the perfect basic white dough, which we could use to make a loaf, some rolls and a focaccia. Priding myself on my amateur cake baking, I expected to take to bread naturally and confidently. As I looked down at my clay-like dough, I realised that just wasn’t going to happen.

“There will be no bread envy in this kitchen,” Liz says, but as she finished kneading her dough a good five minutes before the rest of us, I was rather envious. As I persevered, the dough eventually took its form, and we left it to rest in a bowl – topped with a shower cap, which she recommends for allowing the dough to prove.

One of the other bakers, a self-employed research consultant, said: “This would be great to do when you are working from home.” I agreed.

Breadmaking can be therapeutic, and kneading can certainly be a way to release stress. I remarked to Liz that the stress of a late payment would do wonders to the dough. She replied: “Well, if people are paying you late, at least you will have something to eat.”

If you work from home, breadmaking is a fantastic way to break up the day.

“When you’re kneading the dough, your hands are entwined in the dough so you can’t answer the phone or reply to an email. Having to focus on one thing is really good, it’s like mindfulness in dough,” Liz says.

“Every time you revisit the dough it has changed a bit. Then, when you get it out of the oven

“I love teaching because there is something so special about sharing something you love with other people.”

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you have a lovely loaf of bread to eat and your home will smell delicious.”

The white dough recipe is a four hour-long process, but you’re only actually doing anything for about 20 minutes of those four hours, making it the perfect way to break up the working day.

As our dough proved, we headed into the lounge, where we sat and enjoyed coffee with some of Liz’s homemade cookies. Liz talked us through the recipes and the science behind breadmaking, such as how sourdough is formed.

The more time I spent with Liz, the more I wished I lived next door.

modern work

“I make bread to order in the week and deliver it around the local area. One lady likes hers without salt, so I make sure she has a special batch,” she adds.

As our white dough rose, we stopped for lunch.

Liz provided a generous spread of cheese, chutneys and, of course, some of the bread we had just made.

There is nothing quite like the satisfaction of eating something you have just made from scratch.

After lunch, we headed back into the kitchen to form our white dough into a loaf, some rolls and a focaccia. The focaccia was a highlight – so easy to make and so delicious.

“A lot of people who go on my weekday courses are self-employed, because they have that flexibility,” Liz says, and quite rightly as both the other women there were freelancers.

“This is why you work as hard as you do as a freelancer: so you can come and do fun things like make bread in the middle of the day.

“I have probably never worked harder, but I’ve also never been happier” “It also gives you the chance to see how other people work. I have had people who meet on a course and come back and do another class again together.”

Speaking of self-employment, how did Liz find the transition from employment to working independently?

“I had to do a lot of learning. I have probably never worked harder, but I’ve also never been happier,” Liz smiles.

“I get to work from home, which means my kids always know where I am, and if I want to stop, I can just shut this down, go away for a few weeks, and reopen when I come back. I don’t have the worry about premises, or having people work for me. I have that lovely flexibility.”

Liz clearly works hard, but the flexible attitude she has towards her work is reassuring, and it’s clear that her role as a mum is never far from what she does.

September/ October 2019

White dough

Ingredients 500g strong white flour 10g salt 5g instant yeast 325g water

Enough for a small loaf, a focaccia, and two small buns

Method: 1. Place the flour, yeast and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the water and using a dough scraper, bring the dough together in the bowl. When there is no more dry flour, take the dough out onto a clean surface and start kneading it. Knead for between 10-15 minutes, until you have smooth and silky dough.

2. Put the dough back in the mixing bowl and cover it with a shower cap or plastic bag.

Leave to prove for an hour or so until it has doubled in size.

For a white loaf:

1. Take 450g of your dough. If putting into a loaf tin, flatten into a rectangle, pull each corner outwards and then fold back into the middle.

2. Place the dough scraper on one long side of the dough and push it against the dough until the dough comes underneath the scraper.

Repeat on the other side.

3. Place the loaf seam side down into a greased tin. Cover the tin and leave for 45 minutes.

4. When the dough has doubled in size, flour the top of the loaf, and slash the top.

5. Cook at 250c. Put a cup of water in a baking tray at the bottom of the oven when you put the loaf in. Leave for ten minutes at high heat and then turn down to 220c for the final 10-15 minutes.

6. Rest for 30 minutes minimum before eating.

For a focaccia:

1. Take 250g of your dough and place in a small oven tray. Pull it gently with your fingers until it reaches the sides of the tray.

2. Cover and leave for 30 minutes until the dough has puffed up.

Brush with olive oil, and poke rosemary, cherry tomatoes and sea salt on top. Poke indents into the dough.

3. Cook for 15-20 minutes at high heat.

For buns:

1. Divide the remaining dough into two pieces. Looking at the dough like a square, pinch the four corners inwards and then roll into a tight ball.

2. If you want to, dip the dough in water and then add your choice of seeds.

3. Bake for 10-15 minutes at a high heat.

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Freelancing: Always on or an endless holiday?

By Inna Yordanova

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modern work

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hether it’s a weekend away or a longer beach holiday, taking time off is something all of us look forward to. UK employees are entitled to 28 days of paid annual leave and seem to be using most of it, even at a time of political uncertainty and economic turbulence.

On the other hand, the number of days freelancers take off is incredibly varied, ranging from more than 40 to no days at all, new research by the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE) has revealed.

The report, Taking Time Off as a Freelancer, surveyed nearly 1,000 freelancers to find out whether they are planning – and taking – time off work. On average, freelancers take 24 days of holiday a year – four less than what employees are entitled to.

The exact number of days that freelancers take off, however, varies considerably. A third (34%) take 25 days off or more, while one in seven (13%) take 40 days off or more.

At the bottom end of the scale, one in 10 take no days off at all.

This is concerning, considering that taking time off has a substantial positive impact on mental wellbeing, with an overwhelming majority (92%) reporting at least some positive effect.

For many freelancers, time off improves work-life balance (59%) and relationships with family and loved ones (44%). Taking a break also improves the mental health and wellbeing of freelancers, with more than two in five (44%) saying they felt less stressed and anxious because of it. In fact, the research revealed a strong correlation between taking more time off and reporting lower levels of job-related stress.

The report also showed that almost two thirds (63%) of freelancers believe taking holiday improves their work performance

September/ October 2019

in some way. When asked what advantages came with taking more time off, 63 per cent said it improved productivity, energy, creativity and confidence in their work.

Interestingly, men are more likely to report time off having a positive impact on their personal wellbeing. They said it brought benefits such as a better work-life balance and improved relationships with their loved ones.

Women, on the other hand, are more likely to report that taking time off has a positive effect on their professional attitude.

They said they experienced benefits such as feeling more productive and inspired.

“Two thirds (58%) of freelancers respond to work-related emails on their holiday.”

WORKING WHILE AWAY Even though freelancers reported feeling more productive after taking time off, many still work while they are away. In fact, only one in five (22%) do not work when they are on holiday.

The majority of freelancers (58%) reply to work-related emails on their holiday and a third (37%) also respond to work-related calls. And the work isn’t limited to communication. Many work on projects remotely (28%) and even find or take on new projects (20%) while on holiday.

Beyond client work, a fifth of freelancers undertake business administration activities while they are on holiday. This includes taking care of their accounting and bookkeeping (22%) and chasing late payments from clients (21%).

THE ABILITY TO TAKE TIME OFF Generally, freelancers feel they are able to take time off for personal commitments such as attending a funeral, going on holiday, caring for a family member or a loved one, or attending a wedding.

However, a quarter of freelancers feel unable to take time off when feeling sick or unwell. This, the report suggests, might be associated with the fact that they are not entitled to sick pay, or struggle to find a substitute for their work. A quarter of respondents even said they had missed or cancelled a medical appointment because of their self-employed work.

A quarter of freelancers also feel unable to take time off for jury service, other public duties or to study. And a fifth admitted they missed a training course for work.

Others said they had to miss personal commitments like holidays, as well as family occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries, because of their self-employed work.

Chloé Jepps, head of research at IPSE, said: “Freelancers must be encouraged to take more time off, for the sake of their business, and for their mental health and personal lives. Our research clearly shows that taking more leave helps freelancers combat stress and anxiety and build up their personal relationships.

“This is why our report is calling on government to improve access to training for the self-employed. It is also calling on industry to offer more flexible insurance solutions to cover for sick days and jury service.

Businesses must ensure the self-employed are better supported to take time off.”

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modern work

Court rules BBC presenters were inside IR35 and must pay thousands

© Gavin Rodgers / Alamy Stock Photo

By Ryan Barnett

BBC presenters outside High Court, London: (r to left) Tim Wilcox, Joanna Gosling and David Eades

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BC presenters Joanna Gosling, David Eades and Tim Wilcox have been told to pay hundreds of thousands of pounds back in taxes, despite a High Court judgement that found the corporation had wrongly forced them to use personal service companies.

The three presenters must pay back HMRC £920,000 after a tribunal ruled their contracts with the BBC fell inside the off-payroll tax rules (IR35).

Gosling, Eades and Wilcox’s case, which has taken eight years to resolve, is one of few high profile IR35 cases HMRC has won. Earlier this year, the tax authority lost its cases against ITV presenters Lorraine Kelly and Kaye Adams.

The three BBC presenters had argued they were self-employed, but the court ruled that because the corporation exercised a significant degree of control over them, payments to them should have been treated as employment income.

Despite this, the judges stated that the BBC had used its position and power to “force” the presenters into using personal services companies and taking a reduction in pay. This meant that the tax risks were transferred to the preSeptember/ October 2019

senters rather than the BBC. The court also said that the presenters were not warned of the IR35 risks, and that not every contract signed by them fell inside IR35.

However, the judgement, which was a split decision and resolved on a casting vote, concluded that Gosling, Eades and Wilcox were still inside IR35 and therefore liable to pay more tax.

There are hundreds of other presenters and contractors facing similar cases against HMRC. The freelancing body, the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE), has warned that the fact that this was a split decision and that it produced a different result to many of the other cases, shows just how complex and chaotic IR35 legislation is.

Andy Chamberlain, deputy director of policy at IPSE, said: “This wasn’t a slam dunk by HMRC by any stretch of the imagination. It was a split decision, IR35 didn’t apply to all of the contracts and the tribunal limited the scope of the tax payments to four years, rather than the full six that HMRC were claiming.

“This case demonstrated just how confusing and unfit for purpose IR35 is (and) is likely to add

to the chaos around the legislation. There is little evidence that HMRC or other experienced tax specialists are confident in how it works.

"We remain at a loss how the Treasury expects medium sized businesses to accurately apply IR35 to their contractors from next year, when HMRC and tax judges struggle.

“Part of the engagements were not deemed to be inside IR35 on the grounds that Mutuality of Obligation (MOO) didn’t apply, which fundamentally undermines HMRC’s view that MOO is always established in every contract.”

A spokesperson for the BBC said: “We have tried for a long time to agree a set of guidance with HMRC which gives certainty for the media industry. It’s vital that HMRC now provides the greater clarity which is still needed to avoid others having to go through this ordeal.”

The BBC has taken responsibility for the contracts and it is understood the corporation has settled two-thirds of the bill already.

It is currently under pressure to settle the remaining figure of approximately £200,000, which relates to National Insurance Contributions.

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Why do female choose to

By Jessica Hayden

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ou may remember the phrase ‘freelancing is a feminist issue’. It has been said a lot, and for good reason. The number of women choosing freelancing over traditional employment is rising rapidly. Research

by IPSE found that there are over two million freelancers in the UK, 42 per cent of whom are women.

Freelancing is a fantastic choice for many reasons, including the freedom and flexibility it can offer. Some industries lend themselves to freelancing more than others, and journalism is one of them.

After a recent viral tweet from Lucy Pasha-Robinson, opinion editor at the Huffington Post, which asked: “Why are so many female journalists going freelance?”, I decided to find out for myself.

Here, three female journalists explain why freelancing was the right move for them.

SUCHANDRIKA CHAKRABARTI, 36, LONDON I think more female journalists are going into self-employment because in my experience it is harder for a woman to be promoted than it is for a man. Men hire their mates, or people that look like them – especially as most senior management in the media are men. An example of that is the new football website The Athletic. They just launched in the UK, and out of the 57 staff hired, only six are women.

I was made redundant three times within employment, and so self-employment became the obvious and best choice for me. My mental health suffered when I was in employment, as I was made to question my worth. The news cycle is not good for mental health. Now I’m writing features at my own pace and it is a lot nicer.

Although it has been difficult to get my head around the banking, self-employment was definitely the right choice for me. I wouldn’t say my work-life balance is any better, in fact it is probably worse, but I would never go back to employment. I work seven days a week now but it’s doing stuff that I enjoy, and my days are a lot more at my pace.

DONNA FERGUSON, 37, CAMBRIDGE I have been a journalist for 16 years now and decided to go freelance when I had my daughter, Flora, seven years ago. I would never have had the courage to go freelance if it hadn’t been for my daughter. It wasn’t so much a career

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modern work

journalists go freelance? decision as just the right thing to do for my family at the time, but it became the best career decision I have ever made!

I have really good working connections with other working mums, who understand if the phone call starts with: “Hang on, I just need to put Peppa Pig on.” Although journalism is still often an old boys’ club, I was an editor before I decided to go freelance, so it wasn’t a decision that was spurred by not getting promotions or sexism in the workplace.

Going freelance was definitely a positive choice for me, but there are problems with being a freelance journalist. I don’t get promoted, and my pay hasn’t risen in six and a half years so I’m still not earning the same amount as I was when I was employed.

The benefits far outweigh any negatives for me, though. I get to spend quality time with my daughter, I don’t have a commute, and I am always writing, rather than editing. Plus, I get to help out on the school trips!

of your potential writing time.

Also, most editors prefer to use writers they already know, so often you have to struggle twice as hard to get pieces because you won’t be offered anything. I also miss being in an office – my locker, my cafeteria, all the comforts of a staff job.

That being said, I have a lot more flexibility now and can fit my work around my life and write about a different thing each day. When I was in a staff job, I kept having to say no to interesting projects, but now I can say yes, which means I can do a much wider variety of work.

For me, the positives outweigh the negatives, and I won’t be going back to a staff job until at least next summer.

HARRIET MARSDEN, 27, LONDON I became self-employed very recently, after having worked at a daily newspaper. I think the culture of a newsroom is a reason why so many women choose self-employment, particularly those with children. The benefits of being a freelancer are countless, how it transforms your personal life is beyond amazing – particularly if you are used to working nights, bank holidays, weekends and Christmas.

There are challenges, though. You have to run yourself essentially like a business, with admin, accounts and marketing eating up a vast majority September/ October 2019

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Freelancing is freedom and flexibility New report reveals the motivations behind why people are choosing to work for themselves

By Chloé Jepps Research correspondent

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ore than eight out of 10 freelancers choose self-employment because of the flexibility, autonomy and worklife balance that it provides, new figures have revealed.

Latest research by the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE), titled Understanding Freelancers, looked at whether self-employment was a positive choice for people or if it was because of a lack of employment opportunities.

The research, which surveyed more than 2,000 highly skilled freelancers, found that for the majority, self-employment was a positive choice.

People enjoyed the freedom, the flexibility and the autonomy self-employment offers. The most popular motivation, with almost nine out of 10 freelancers stating that it was a key factor, was being able to have more flexibility (88%).

Reasons for choosing selfemployment

Less than one in five stated that losing their job had played a part in their decision to become self-employed (19%) and a third felt that they had lacked alternative suitable employment opportunities (30%).

And once established in self-employment, do people’s experiences match their expectations?

The short answer is yes. According to the report, majority of freelancers maintained that self-employment gives them the flexibility they need around the rest of their lives (82%).

Freelancers also stated that this way of working gives them autonomy to make their own decisions (89%) and that it suits their lifestyle (88%).

In fact, they seem to be very happy in self-employment, with over three quarters (77%) rating their happiness as a seven out of 10 – only five per cent reported net unhappiness (0–3 out of 10).

Despite the positive experiences of self-employment, more than half of the freelancers surveyed admitted working for themselves was more challenging than they had expected. Many of these challenges centre around finances, and included irregular income (60%), not being prepared for retirement (56%), late payment from clients (46%) and not having access to statutory benefits (46%).

Almost half of freelancers (45%) were also concerned about not being able to find self-em-

almost

FLEXIBILITY

September/ October 2019

ployed work and a third had concerns around dealing with taxes and HMRC (34%). Alongside tackling late payment and saving for later life, these were two other areas the research found that freelancers wanted more support with.

To meet freelancers’ needs, IPSE’s report calls for government and industry to develop innovative solutions to help and encourage self-employed people to save for later life. It also recommends providing the small business commissioner with more powers to help tackle the late payment culture as well as ensuring organisations like IPSE can provide tailored support, advice and training.

Ryan Barnett, IPSE’s economic policy adviser, said: “This new report illustrates why people choose to go into self-employment. It provides autonomy, flexibility and pride in a changing economy reliant on their specialist skills.

“More, though, could be done to help freelancers in their ambitions. This means government policies which enable them to thrive by providing better financial support, advice and a tax system fit for 2019.

“This will give them the personal confidence to strive for what they feel they can achieve.”

Full report found at: ipse.co.uk

less than

LOSING JOB

LACK OF EMPLOYMENT

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No-deal Brexit: IMPACT ON FREELANCERS

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By Tristan Grove Chief correspondent

odern Work is about giving freelancers, the self-employed and anyone else involved in modern ways of working all the latest developments – be they technological, economic or political – that could affect them. And right now, there is an elephant not just in the room, but lumbering furiously towards the self-employed: a no-deal Brexit.

In the lobby section of Modern Work, we’ve covered many of the twists and turns of the Brexit saga, but we haven’t yet addressed the growing probability of a no-deal exit. So, what is it, what would it mean for freelancers, and what should you be doing to prepare for it?

So, what is the likely effect of all this for freelancers? Well, there are two key reasons why freelancers are especially exposed to the risks. First, many freelancers have clients based in the EU. In fact, research by IPSE found that in 2018, 30 per cent of British freelancers’ contracts were in the remaining 27 EU countries (EU27).

MOVEMENT The first major concern for freelancers in the event of a no-deal Brexit is the impact on freedom of movement. At present, all freelancers who have the right to work in the UK also have the right to work in any of the EU27 countries, but without a deal this would change the moment the UK left the EU.

WHAT IS A ‘NO-DEAL BREXIT’?

When, in 2016, the British public was asked to take part in a referendum on whether or not the UK should remain a member of the European Union (EU), what was not included was how exactly the UK could leave. A no-deal is essentially the default way of leaving the European Union.

Whereas Theresa May’s proposed deal involved an extended ‘transition period’ during which to separate the UK from Europe’s institutions, a nodeal exit would involve abruptly leaving all of them.

This means not only would the UK break away from enforcement and regulatory bodies like the European Court of Justice and Europol overnight, it would also crash out of the single market and customs union, which facilitate tariff-free trade between the EU and the UK. In the short term, the UK would trade on World Trade Organization terms, which would mean sudden and often substantial tariffs on goods passing between the UK and the EU. 16

rienced something of a boost as many businesses took to using their services instead of risking hiring new permanent employees.

There is some talk of a similar prospect in the wake of a no-deal Brexit. And, in fact, IPSE’s freelancer Confidence Index showed that in the last quarter of 2018, when anxiety about Brexit was intensifying, businesses were indeed making more use of freelancers.

As a result, while confidence in the economy was plummeting, freelancers’ day rates shot up by 54 per cent. In the first and second quarters of 2019, however, this short-term boost evaporated.

It seems possible that the brief boom freelancers can expect in times of economic uncertainty has already been and gone.

Second, unlike larger businesses, they do not have the resources to plough into complex and lengthy Brexit planning. As a spokesperson for the Confederation of British Industry said: “For hundreds of thousands of small companies, diverting precious resource – both human and financial – to Brexit preparedness measures is out of reach.”

Little surprise, then, that four out of five (81%) of freelancers told IPSE they were opposed to a no-deal exit.

A SHORT-TERM BOOST? As they are neither big businesses nor employees, freelancers’ fortunes can often defy expectations. In the wake of the 2008 financial crash, for example, instead of suffering in the same way as the rest of the economy, freelancers actually expemodern work

What freelancers need to know much more expensive for British passengers.

Again, if you currently work with clients in Europe, you should consult them now.

BORDERS Leaving the single market and customs union without a deal could mean the return of tariffs for goods passing between the UK and the EU27.

This could have a major impact not only on freelance and other businesses that rely on goods and resources shipped from the EU, but also on businesses that export products to the EU. The British government has said it will not impose tariffs on goods coming from the EU to the UK, but there is no obligation whatsoever for the EU to do the same. Many businesses are already stockpiling raw materials and other goods they import from the EU. If you rely on goods imported from the EU, it may be worthwhile considering this option.

TRAVEL If the UK leaves the EU without a deal, it is expected that travel will be significantly disrupted. This would disproportionately affect freelancers who travel to meet and work for international clients.

In the immediate aftermath of a no-deal exit, flights between the UK and Europe could be grounded. After that, flights are likely to be much more expensive for British freelancers.

As research by Travel Supermarket has pointed out, aeroplane fuel is priced in dollars, which means that as the pound tumbles, it will become September/ October 2019

CLIENTS The risks are by no means only related to freelancers working in the EU27. Up until now, many multinational companies have used the UK as their key European base. In the last year, however, many of these companies, from Unilever and EasyJet to Lloyds of London, have announced partial moves to other European hubs to protect their businesses after Brexit.

In the wake of a no-deal Brexit, there are fears this process will accelerate. There are no simple ways to prepare for this, but it may be wise to consider how you might expand your client list should the need arise.

REGULATIONS

© Madeleine Stuart

If you’re currently working for a client in Europe and are based in the same country, you should check with them and also the government of the country: you may need to register as a resident.

In the long term, leaving the EU without a deal may mean that you need a visa to work for clients in the EU27.

based on the EU’s. In the event of a no-deal Brexit, the government has said the Intellectual Property Office will create comparable UK trademarks for all European Union Trademarks (EUTMs). Anyone applying for UK trademarks will have to provide a UK address, however, and anyone currently in the process of registering a trademark may have to reapply.

These are times of deep uncertainty for all businesses, but particularly for the self-employed.

Prepare yourself and your business by staying up to date with all the latest developments. You can also get further guidance from the government's online Brexit preparation tool, as well as policy and advice pages of organisations like IPSE and PeoplePerHour.

Beyond tariffs, there are likely to be other serious regulatory changes that could affect many freelancers. It’s impossible to cover them all in detail here, but one of the most significant areas will be intellectual property.

Currently, UK intellectual property law is 17

Bridging the gap between risk and reward Christina McLean talks with Ishita & Will, the go-getting couple behind Copy & Code, about how they made their side-hussle work.

J

do some upskilling has since turned into a flourishing business for the two. Through collaboration, they have found a way to earn money while pursuing their passions.

Both Ishita and Will are still employed but run Copy & Code as a side-hustle – a challenge definitely not suited to the less organised among us.

And they’re certainly not alone in this. A recent study commissioned by Vistaprint of 2,000 adults in full-time employment found that almost a quarter (23%) have already turned a hobby into a side business alongside their career, while a further 56 per cent aspire to.

According to the research, nearly two thirds (58%) of side-hustlers started their business in order to top up their income. With

a typical side business taking up an additional 13 hours a week, managing your workload, time and clients is not easy.

“On any given day, there will be half a dozen freelance projects, we also work on the side, and on top of that you’re managing your social life.”

“One of the biggest challenges I have with working part time and freelancing part time is managing my time,” admits Will.

© Katie Stover Media

ust over two-and-a-half years ago, Ishita Ranjan was dreaming of a trip to Paris.

There was just one small issue getting in her way: a lack of funds. Having had to take time off from her work as a project manager in the social enterprise sector to recover from surgery, the cash wasn’t exactly rolling in.

Armed with skills in copy writing and social media, she started putting out feelers in her network with one goal in mind: to get enough money to go to Paris.

Then there was Will Churchill – her partner.

He had been working as a project manager in the tech sphere but was keen to advance his skills in web development, an area in which he was largely self-taught.

Realising they shared the desire to use their skills outside of their typical nine to five, the two came together to form Copy & Code – a business aimed at helping charities and social enterprises by providing everything from web development to SEO strategy.

An idea that was meant to be a temporary solution for a trip to Paris and an opportunity to

18

modern work

“On any given day, there will be half a dozen freelance projects and clients we’re trying to manage, plus we also work on the side, and then on top of that you’re managing your social life with your family and friends.

Some days it can become really overwhelming,” Ishita adds.

Despite their busy schedules, the two have found a way to make their passion project work. “It’s hard work, and you don’t have the same structures, comforts and security of a nine to five job. But on the flip side you have the ability to choose who you work with and what projects you work on,” explains Will.

“The benefit of freelancing is you get to sell skill sets that you’ve developed, and you get to hone them – it’s easier to do if you enjoy it.”

Ishita and Will have found that although what they are doing with Copy & Code is different to what they do in their other work, a large amount of their skills are easily transferrable.

Speaking to the two, it’s clear that the only way to truly make this work is to be meticulous when it comes to planning and time management. In fact, the same Vistaprint study also found that almost a fifth of those polled (17%) spend more than 20 hours a week working on their side business.

So how can you make it work?

“There are a couple of things I do to manage my time,” says Ishita. “Some of them are really practical things – I use tools like

Wunderlist and make sure I have to-do lists.

I also use a Google calendar to meticulously schedule my day as well as Trello to manage projects and workflows.”

For Will, it’s the checklist app Todoist that helps him break down his projects between both his part-time job and his work with Copy & Code: “It’s quite good at giving you an overview of what’s due when, and what your timeline should be. Then I transfer that out into a simple Google calendar… so I can be quite granular with sorting out my days,” he explains.

For both Ishita and Will, a side-hustle has meant that they can do what they enjoy doing and build something on their own terms while also de-risking with the security of more stable employment.

“The thing I love most about being a freelancer is the freedom and opportunity that it gives you to explore your own interests and keep building skill sets you want to build,” concludes Ishita.

“We are in a really great position where we get to work with some incredible and interesting clients, and we get to learn with every single person that we work with.”

Succeeding at a side-hustle proves to be not simply an extra source of income, but also a way in which you can hone new skills, de-risk the pursuit of your passions, and of course, afford that trip to Paris.

“Two fifths of freelancers spend more than 20 hours a week on working on their side business.”

September/ October 2019

19

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modern work

Your monthly briefing SMALL BUSINESSES HOARD CASH BEFORE BREXIT

TWO MILLION WORKERS ELIGIBLE FOR STATUTORY SICK PAY

FEARING an economic downturn, small businesses have increased the amount of cash held in their current accounts by over 78 per cent in the last two years.

A report published by Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) found that Brexit fears have led to business owners holding extra money in their current accounts, so they have easily accessible funds. The report reveals that the average business current account balance is now £726,000 compared with £408,000 two years ago.

TWO million low-paid workers could receive government-funded sick pay for the first time.

Currently, workers need to earn at least £118 a week – 14 hours at a minimum wage rate – to receive statutory sick pay – although this is reviewed every tax year.

The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) has said that the 1.1 million gig economy workers in the UK would benefit from these plans, as long as they meet a certain criteria – although it is unclear what this is.

BETTER WORK-LIFE BALANCE DRIVES SPIKE IN CONTRACTING ALMOST half (40%) of UK employees would consider becoming a contractor, new research has revealed.

The report, published by Walters People, found that the biggest reasons for employees wishing to become contractors are a higher hourly pay, a better lifestyle, and more flexibility.

The research also found a major boost to the number of contracting vacancies in the UK – an increase of 29 per cent in the second quarter of 2019.

The industry with the highest proportion of employees wishing to become contractors is technology, with 48 per cent looking to go it alone. Other industries with high rates of employees wishing to become self-employed include procurement and the banking and financial services.

September/ October 2019

120,000 BUSINESSES ESCAPE FINE FOR MISSING TAX DEADLINE HMRC has announced it will not fine the 120,000 UK businesses who missed the Making Tax Digital (MTD) deadline.

The tax watchdog said it believes the companies who missed the MTD deadline may have been focused on preparations for leaving the European Union.

Under normal circumstances, a business would have received a fine of at least £100 for not submitting a VAT return by 7 August. Cumulatively, this would have equalled tens of millions of pounds for the revenue.

FREELANCE SECTOR “FLATLINING” IN BREXIT RUN-UP THE freelance sector is “flatlining” because of Brexit, new research by the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE) has revealed.

The latest Freelance Confidence Index, published each quarter by IPSE, shows that not only do freelancers have little confidence in the economy; confidence in their own business performance is also low.

Earnings have also stagnated for freelancers, in contrast to research published on Tuesday, which found that this summer employees have received the biggest pay rise in more than 11 years.

TREASURY ANNOUNCE REVIEW OF LOAN CHARGE THE Treasury announced on 11 September that it would be carrying out an independent review into the so-called ‘loan charge’, to be led by sir Amyas Morse, former CEO of the National Audit Office.

The review will examine HMRC’s demands that approximately 50,000 people who used loanbased avoidance schemes should repay up to 20 years of tax in one year.

Chris Bryce, CEO of IPSE, said: “IPSE welcomes the announcement and is pleased that the Treasury has listened. We never supported the schemes involved but have consistently raised concerns about revenue’s aggressive and retrospective tactics, which have unsettled Britain’s freelancers and caused significant pain.”

21

How will small businesses escape the shadows of crumbling Westminster?

By Ashley Cowburn Political Correspondent at The Independent

B

rexit flowcharts have become a common feature on the political pages of UK newspapers of late. Offering dozens of scenarios with an array of conclusions, they often provide a glimpse into just how complex British politics has become.

Recent end states have included the country leaving the EU with a deal, without a deal, the government requesting a January 2020 negotiating extension, Boris Johnson resigning, Jeremy Corbyn becoming caretaker prime minister, and voters deciding which political party to cast their ballot for at a general election. The uncertainty is unprecedented, and this is all billed before 31 October.

Take last week: Westminster was deserted of MPs as 11 justices at the Supreme Court deliberated on whether it was unlawful for Boris Johnson to suspend parliament in the midst of deadlocked negotiations with Brussels. But now, MPs are packing their bags and heading back to the Commons after the court's extraordinary ruling against the government.

It is no surprise then that viewers have seemingly abandoned Netflix for Parliament TV to wit22

ness the latest chaotic twists and turns in the Brexit saga. The channel received its record audience of 2.6 million adults in one week, as people tuned in to witness a vote on MPs forcing the prime minister to request a negotiating extension from Brussels.

But away from the drama in Westminster, the uncertainty is having seriously worrying ramifications.

In the summer, the Office of National Statistics' latest figures on the state of the UK economy showed that GDP shrank by 0.2 per cent in the second quarter of 2019 – the first contraction since 2012. If this is repeated in the third quarter – results are due on 30 September – then the country will be in a technical recession. Of course, this will affect businesses up and down the country.

For small businesses, there is little relief from the uncertainty. Earlier this month, business minister Andrea Leadsom earmarked a £10m "Brexit readiness fund" for companies large and small in the UK. To supplement this, "advice packs" are available to ensure businesses are prepared for the Halloween Brexit deadline, Leadsom's department insists.

Before Brexit, most seasoned politicos at Westminster would confidently predict the prime minister's next steps, the result of a major poll, or the outcome of a critical vote in the House of Commons. Now, they respond with a bewildered expression as to what could happen in just several days' time. The sources they speak to in governmodern work

Chris Bryce

Chief executive at IPSE

ment are none the wiser.

So, there is only so much small businesses can learn from "advice packs" when the government itself is unsure of the eventual outcome of Brexit.

Unfortunately, the current phase of uncertainty is likely to prevail until at least 19 October – the deadline under the Benn Bill for the prime minister to reach a deal with the EU. If MPs at Westminster are united on one thing, however, it’s that the UK is heading for an early general election, regardless of the Brexit outcome. As with everything else, the timing is uncertain, but the prime minister no longer has control of the Commons chamber, with a majority of minus forty-three. The parliamentary arithmetic that haunted Theresa May's beleaguered premiership looks appealing right now.

Even if Johnson does manage to defy

September/ October 2019

expectations and pull off a deal with the EU in the coming weeks, which is acceptable to MPs, an election is likely to follow. As one cabinet minister highlighted to me recently, if Brexit is delivered, Johnson still faces the issue of not being able the pass any radical domestic policies through parliament.

Due to the Fixed Term Parliaments Act (FTPA) – a piece of legislation devised at the start of the 2010 coalition – there are five-year gaps between elections in the UK. But the act contains two loopholes: either the prime minister can table a motion under the FTPA, calling for an early election and win a two-thirds majority. Or, the opposition can table a motion of no confidence in the government and win a simple majority.

Johnson was denied the two-thirds majority on two occasions before suspending parliament, but if he does end up agreeing an extension to the Brexit negotiating period, Labour and the Liberal Democrats have made clear they will not deny the public an election, if a no-deal exit from the EU is firmly off the table.

An election could solve the uncertainty at Westminster. It could provide one political party with a majority in the Commons to implement their election manifesto, giving clarity to businesses around the UK. But the gamble could also backfire: it could result in yet another hung parliament, and even greater uncertainty. In this event, the only thing you can guarantee is more flowcharts on the political pages of British newspapers.

Tax-hounding in a time of crisis and why it’s not all gloom RIGHT now, we are in a time of near-unprecedented upheaval for the country and for freelancers. Not only do freelancers face the same turbulence and uncertainty as everyone else from Brexit and growing political instability; they are also still grappling with unfair and unsustainable tax-grabs from government.

Does government really understand just how valuable the self-employed are – both to businesses across the country and the economy as a whole?

They add over £275bn to the economy every year, enough to fund the NHS twice over. So it is an appalling lapse for them to be left like this in the run-up to Brexit – just when the economy and the country are going to need them most.

Yet today, the planned changes to IR35 next April hang as heavy as ever around the necks of the self-employed. Not only that: a significant number of them are also being hounded for up to 20 years’ tax in one as part of HMRC’s so-called ‘loan charge’.

At IPSE, we never supported the loan schemes involved, but HMRC’s treatment of the people who used them has been aggressive, disproportionate and disturbing.

It’s not all gloom and tax-grabs, though. There’s a promising new independent review into the loan charge, led by former National Audit Office CEO Sir Amyas Morse. And at IPSE we’re still campaigning hard on IR35. With the change of management at the Treasury – from the freelance-hunting Hammond to small business-supporting Sajid Javid – we’re also hopeful of some movement on this.

That leaves the one cloud hanging over all our heads: Brexit. IPSE, like all other business groups, is pushing the government to avert a no-deal exit and finally put an end to this profoundly damaging uncertainty.

Today, however, a no-deal is still more of a risk than ever, and freelancers and small businesses alike need to prepare as best they can. There’s freelance-specific no-deal guidance in this magazine and on IPSE’s website. We’re also building up more detailed guidance to make sure that in this time of tax-hounding and instability, there’s at least one group out there properly supporting the self-employed.

23

A workspace you can really bank on Santander brings its unique coworking space offering to the UK

W

By Jessica Hayden News correspondent

orking from a café is not a new trend. There are many benefits to working from your local coffee house. It’s free, there are usually power points, wi-fi and somebody else to make your coffee and do the dishes afterwards.

However, it can come with its downsides: kids running around, the distracting conversation of someone on the table next to you, and coffee prices so high they may stop you from ever saving enough to buy a house.

But Santander’s Work Café in Leeds, the first in the UK, recognises these challenges and has an answer for every single one of them. Free for anyone to use, not just Santander customers, this space, which opened in July, is the perfect balance of café and co-working space.

“In other cafés you may feel like you have to buy something, or you may be encouraged to move on,” manager Bella tells me. “But not here. You can work for as long as you like, and you will not be expected to buy anything if you don’t want to.”

As I enter this bright, newly refurbished space, it feels like any other café. There is a selection of freshly prepared sandwiches, giant cookies and beautiful-looking cakes on display. And the people here; some are clearly having an informal meeting, 24

while others are there with children.

To my left, however, is a large co-working space, far away enough from the noise of the café, but close enough to smell the freshly ground coffee.

Chatting to Scott, who works from the café most days, he says: “The noise is never a problem. People know this is a work café, and they go elsewhere if they are just looking for somewhere to have a catch-up.”

“You don't need a membership to work here, you can just turn up.”

Like most co-working spaces, Work Café has a stripped-back minimalist look.

“The décor is the same as all of the other 55 Santander Work Cafés around the world,” Bella explains. “People who work here for six hours a day don’t want it to look too busy.”

Not only is the café free to work from, but Santander cardholders also get 30 per cent off hot drinks, meaning a large coffee costs less than £2.

The coffee is sourced from Taylor St Baristas and is impressive – the first five-star rating I have given to coffee in a co-working space.

The only difference in this co-working space is that you can’t bring your own food and drink in, but when a freshly prepared sandwich costs £3 in the café, I doubt you’d really feel the need to.

“What we are offering is an informal space for people to use, rather than being tied down to a permanent desk somewhere. Quite often, people will work here all day, sometimes every day, but for those who want a permanent desk, there are many other places to choose from in Leeds,” Bella adds.

The space is open from 8am to 6pm every day and freelancers can stay as long as they like without having to sign a contract.

“You don’t need a membership to work here; you can turn up just as you would to work in a café, which appeals to a lot of people.

“We have a very diverse crowd. We see everyone from students, small businesses and freelancers, all the way up to people working for big businesses,” she says.

My worry entering the space was that there would be Santander employees dotted around, constantly trying to sell mortgages or loans to people trying to work. This isn’t the case – workers are left modern work

The world’s coolest co-working spaces

CO-WORKING spaces can now be found in pretty much every major city in the world. They come in all shapes and sizes, so get your bucket list to hand, here are your next additions.

BEACHUB, KOH PHANGAN, THAILAND Koh Phangan, a tropical island paradise off the country’s eastern coast, is better known for its Full Moon Party hedonism than as a hotspot for microbusiness. But the island is also home to a burgeoning freelance scene and the best spot is Beachub: the world’s first beachfront co-working space. alone, and Bella is clear that her staff do not try and sell to anyone.

“We want to get local businesses using the space. There doesn’t have to be anything that we are getting back, but it’s allowing us to get to know the start-up community in Leeds and build that network.”

That being said, the café does have banking facilities and you can book meetings with Santander staff on-site, to talk about a product or service.

But nearly everything is essentially free. You can book a meeting room, attend one of their events or go to one of the drop-in sessions with impartial advisers from external organisations, whether or not you are a Santander customer.

The café even has a business relationship manager, who helps freelancers network and collaborate with people in the same industry or who are working on similar projects.

This is the first time Modern Work has given a five-star review to a co-working space, and to a deserving winner. Their commitment to helping those starting out is admirable, and I hope to see more Santander Work Cafés popping up in the UK soon.

September/ October 2019

VILLAGE UNDERGROUND, LISBON, PORTUGAL

Overall rating Price Location Facilities Wi-Fi Coffee

Village Underground is all about promoting creativity and culture and originated from East London in 2007. VULX is Village Underground’s space in Lisbon’s trendy Alcântara district, and this one sports a memorable design; you’ll be running your business in an enormous, brightly coloured, Lego-like fortress, comprised of 13 shipping containers with two double decker buses perched atop them.

HUBUD, BALI, INDONESIA Hubud may well be the world’s most famous co-working space, and with good reason. Situated in the heart of Ubud, a traditional, rural Balinese town that attracts independent workers from every continent, Hubud is tight-knit community first and workspace second. It brings ambitious entrepreneurs together, and as a result, many successful start-ups began their journey here.

25

At last, I’ve started my business!

I can’t wait to spend all day Googling business law! ...said no business owner, ever No one starts a business to spend hours a day delving into business law (well, apart from Farillio!)... but that’s often what small-business owners need to do.

But that’s where Farillio can help – it’s an online legal platform built to help small businesses like yours go far.

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Navigate your business adventure confidently, simply & safely with legal guides, templates, step-by-step checklists, video tutorials & pay-as-you-go access to experienced, friendly experts across the country.

“Whether it’s an NDA template, an employment contract, or bespoke legal advice, I know Farillio has me covered” And it doesn’t stop with law. Farillio joins the dots between law and every other aspect of running your business: marketing, sales, PR, finance, HR, accounting, and so much more...

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Get 2 weeks free and a 35% discount for 18 months as an IPSE member, when you sign up to Farillio Farillio Limited is a limited company registered in England and Wales with the registered company number: 10633658. Its registered office is 1-15 Clere Street, London, EC2A 4UY 26

modern work

Review Logitech Craft Keyboard

More than just a crafty bit of kit

By Stuart Ulrich

C

Tech correspondent

omputer peripherals are, in most situations, the afterthought of your computing set-up. Destined to go unappreciated, performing an unremarkable, mandatory role and spending their lifetime cowering in the ominous shadow of your computer’s self-importance. Until now… it’s time to step into the light.

Introducing the wireless Logitech Craft: a very sleek and sophisticated keyboard. It is aimed not exclusively, but primarily, at the creative user.

It is undeniably beautiful and feature-rich, but it is not without its niggles and an eye-watering £179 price tag.

This keyboard screams creative simplicity, with its robust matt black plastic paired with a silver metallic bar housing a 1,500mAH battery — plus the mysterious dial that brings the Craft’s party piece to life.

Its thin, elegant design is complemented by the subtle dishing on each key, which stops your fingers from getting lost in the sea of flat buttons.

With such a simple design, some might say the Craft looks almost dreary. I, however, say it only emphasises the deeper beauty of this keyboard, and lets the functionality to do the talking.

At 960g, the Craft is a pretty heavy keyboard, which may be an issue for the always-on-the-go user. But to me, it instils confidence in its sturdiSeptember/ October 2019

ness and ability to withstand the occasional knock.

The Craft features dual connectivity, 2.4GHz wireless over the Logitech unifying receiver and low-energy mode over Bluetooth. It boasts a wireless range of 10m, perfect for those with superhuman vision, however, for those of us with normal eyes, I doubt you will put the range under any form of stress.

The battery life could be better. With backlighting turned off, you can expect, on average, a not so shabby three-month battery life. However, with backlighting turned on, it is a very disappointing one week. It takes roughly six hours for the Craft to charge to 100 per cent when connected using the included USB-C cable.

But what makes the Craft more than just an average keyboard? The dial, Craft’s touch-sensitive media control, which unleashes the full potential of its functionality. Spin left, right or click – a simple, yet effective application control feature that even non-creatives can benefit from.

Out of the box, Craft can integrate with most MS Office and Adobe Suite applications, Spotify, Windows, IOS, Linux and so much more! In Windows 10, the dial controls volume but switching into Photoshop, the dial can be used to make pixel-by-pixel adjustments using a variety of tools.

The first time you connect the Craft to your computer, you are prompted to install Logitech

Options, an application that will take you down the metaphorical rabbit hole into the world of complete customisation. Options will unlock the default functionality of the dial and the function (Fn) keys, allowing you to change the result of each key and dial movement.

I used the Craft keyboard for around two weeks and over Bluetooth, I did experience a few connection drops. Overall, the Craft is simply amazing. Not only is it a contender for one of the most beautiful keyboards available today; the functionality and sheer customisation available set this keyboard in a league of its own, and definitely deserve the honoured position on your desk… regardless of the price.

27

Who has time to date when you're married to your job?

Working for yourself might increase your chances of success in your career. But could it be having a negative impact on your love life?

By Kate Taylor

Freelance writer specialising in dating and relationships

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A

recent Buffer survey found that loneliness was the biggest problem for 21 per cent of freelancers when they switched over to remote working.

But working alone doesn’t just mean you miss chatting about Love Island by the coffee machine — it can mean you struggle to find a partner, too.

Caroline, a freelance creative consultant, is single, and wonders if her work has affected that.

“I’ve been a freelancer for 12 years and definitely feel that this choice makes it harder to find a relationship. This way of life is great for my work, but I’m creating professional relationships that need to stay that way. My experience is that if it becomes anything else then the work opportunity often disappears.”

Genevieve Zawada-Gresset, CEO of the dating agency Elect Club (electclub.co.uk) and co-founder of Relationship Retreats, has seen a dramatic rise in freelancers, entrepreneurs and home workers using her services over the past three years.

She says: “Working from home is always a challenge when looking for love. You don’t naturally get to meet colleagues and bond or get introduced to other single friends.”

Even outside the office, Genevieve adds this working style has affected her clients’ ability to make connections: “Their communication skills are very poor. They find it almost impossible to speak on the phone, meaning they struggle to arrange simple dates.”

If you feel you need more ways to bring love into your world, here are five simple ways you can start.

INDUSTRY EVENTS Are you going to industry events, but avoiding the drinks party afterwards because you won’t know anyone? Remember — not knowing anyone is why you should go. These informal gatherings are a great place to give some CPR to your underused small-talk skills.

Resist the temptation to huddle in a cluster of acquaintances or hide behind your phone in a corner. Instead, position yourself near the bar, the food, or the centre of the room.

Anthropologists call these areas ‘social hotspots’, because they’re where people are most likely to strike up conversations. Also, don’t forget that freelancers might not have Christmas parties to flirt at, but we do have our own version: end-of-year awards ceremonies. Never turn down a ticket.

ONLINE DATING According to Stamford University’s latest How Couples Meet report, online dating is now the most successful way for singles to find love.

September/ October 2019

It has even overtaken ‘meeting through friends’, which had been in the top spot since 1940.

If it hasn’t worked for you yet, don’t give up: we’re approaching online dating’s busiest period, with most new members joining between Christmas and New Year. Be ready for the onslaught by creating an upbeat profile and uploading your very best photos.

Don’t use your LinkedIn headshot or Instagram avatar – they’re searchable and could lead dates straight to your professional identity.

Instead, use informal pictures, flirt like a bandit, and fit as many coffee and lunch dates into your week as you can.

WORK FROM A BAR Switch up your working routine so you’re not lugging your laptop to the same coffee shops every time. Try new venues where it’s more sociable and chatty. Like, a bar.

“I’ve worked from my local pub for four years now,” says Steve, a freelance scriptwriter.

“The dialogue is much more interesting than you hear in a café. I met my fiancee there when she came in with friends for lunch.”

OR WORK IN A BAR If your daily grind keeps you isolated, find an evening job that’s sociable. Working at informal places like bars, restaurants, bowling alleys or cinemas will smooth out your cash flow and bring you into regular contact with people who are socialising to meet new friends.

Choose your venue wisely: aim to work in a place where your ideal date would go — like your local Escape Room if you want a clever type, or in a paintballing club if you don’t.

FREELANCE NETWORKING GROUPS Want someone who truly understands what it’s like to be self-employed, and who has a schedule as flexible as yours? Another freelancer might be your perfect match.

Ed Goodman, co-founder of the IPSE award-winning Facebook group Freelance Heroes, believes love might just be one post away: “The biggest hurdles when meeting someone for the first time are breaking the ice and knowing what to talk about. Being part of a common-interest group clears both of these challenges.”

After you’ve bonded online, use one of the group’s live events to meet in person, in a low-pressure way. “When I’ve met Freelance Heroes members, it’s often felt like meeting old friends, even on the first occasion. The conversation has flowed freely and naturally from the very beginning.”

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Redefining female entrepreneurship

By Pauline Brookes and Clara Emanuel, co-founders and directors of The Moderna

W

hile still under-represented in many different industries, female founders across the globe are redefining what it means to be an entrepreneur. As women strike out on their own, they are re-imagining success for themselves, and making strides to create a lasting impact for their families and communities. So, here's how women are changing the landscape.

A FLEXIBLE REVOLUTION Today, there are so many different opportunities available for women to modernise their way of working – they can choose to live a life by design and not by default. Whether it’s consulting, freelancing full-time or part-time in the corporate world, finding work as a creative, or even starting a business, there seems to be a rise in entrepreneurship among women.

According to research by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), it is estimated that businesses owned by women, contribute £105 billion to the UK economy.

In particular, women are shepherding the movement in the wellness space, bringing rapid expansion in one of the fastest growing global industries. Within this context, it is also women who are driving the surge in highly skilled freelancers in the UK, which, according to research by IPSE, was at a rate of 63 per cent over the last 10 years.

And you can clearly see why. More and more women are choosing to go out on their own firstly, to take control of the direction their careers are taking; secondly, to take advantage of potential opportunities and most importantly, flexible working conditions.

A work/ life balance is essential for female entrepreneurs and freelancers to feeling successful, accomplished and happy. In the past, we’ve found that as women

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progressed in traditional careers, they have often been forced to make a sacrifice. This meant either focusing on family and putting their careers on hold or choosing to work over family.

RE-IMAGINING SUCCESS The acrobatics involved in juggling life’s curveballs can leave women feeling stressed, overworked and less willing to take on the risks that come with starting a new business. But as more women realise they can have the best of both worlds, family life alongside their career, in most cases, it is inevitable that self-employment is the way forward.

Creating a thriving, flexible lifestyle is not easy.

There’s no magic formula that will guarantee immediate success when you start out. However, with the right resources and support, women can become better equipped to embrace more fulfilling careers.

Success doesn’t have to look a certain way; it can mean different things to different people. It could mean seeking investment for your business; being able to buy a home while pursuing a creative career; or being able to work while you have family. It could even mean having the time to take on multiple passions or projects.

A LASTING IMPACT It’s never been a better time for women to strike out on their own, whether it’s through a small side business, leveraging their expertise as a freelancer, or launching a large-scale venture.

As women redefine what it means to be entrepreneurs, it’s clear that more support, funding, and a community is needed to help them continue to thrive, break barriers, stay connected and re-invest.

We don’t believe it’s too much of a stretch to say that when women take the opportunity to build businesses, collaborate with others, broaden networks and create wealth, we are making a positive impact that truly is changing the world.

September/ October 2019

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Is imposter syndrome actually a good thing?

By Gemma Church

D

o you hear that little voice? The one telling you that your work sucks, your pitch stinks and you’re going to be unmasked as a fraud any second now?

You’re not alone. According to research by the Behavioral Science Research Institute, more than two thirds of people are plagued by those same nagging doubts, which are collectively known as imposter syndrome. Sufferers are convinced they don’t deserve to be taken seriously, cannot accept their own accomplishments and fall prey to self-doubt, despite any external evidence to the contrary.

Imposter syndrome can hit anyone at any stage in their career. Nobel Laureate Maya Angelou once said, “I have written 11 books, but each time I think, ‘Uh oh, they’re going to find out now.

I’ve run a game on everybody, and they’re going to find me out.’”

There isn’t one specific reason why some people experience imposter syndrome and others do not. Several experts believe your previous life experiences could leave you susceptible to imposter feelings, whereas others think it is associated with certain personality traits like perfectionism.

However, freelancers may be particularly at risk from imposter syndrome. First, we tend to work alone and outside of a conventional work dynamic where success is routinely recognised and rewarded. There are no regular personal development meetings, bonuses or a pat on the back from a satisfied boss, for example.

Second, the lack of consistency could (falsely) lead you to believe you’ve achieved something simply because you were in the right place, at the right time. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve thought ‘wow, that was lucky’ rather than recognise a winning pitch as an indication of my own talent as a writer.

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Lastly, freelancing is a competitive business. No matter what industry you work in, you have to regularly fight for your corner of the market and upskill to make sure you stay ahead of the pack. This may leave you working outside of your comfort zone and unrealistically comparing yourself to others in your field, exacerbating the feeling that you’re simply not good enough.

EMBRACE YOUR INNER IMPOSTER Could imposter syndrome ever be seen as a positive for freelancers? Here are some reasons why it could be a good thing for you and your work: • You challenge yourself: as a freelancer, you have to constantly push yourself to keep your skills relevant and stand out from the crowd. This means you will have to continually work in new ways. It’s only natural to feel uncomfortable when you try something new and to

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feel like a bit of an imposter. But adapting your skills and taking on new challenges is a necessity to survive and thrive as a freelancer.

• You’re modest and grateful: if you suffer from imposter syndrome, you’re unlikely to have an overinflated ego and to take your work for granted. Such humility is vital for any freelancer where complacency could, ultimately, lead to your failure.

• You’re experienced: some experts believe that imposter syndrome arises because you are simply more accomplished at what you do. In other words, as you learn more and hone your craft, you become more critical of your work as you push for perfection.

DEALING WITH IMPOSTER SYNDROME If imposter syndrome does negatively impact your work, here are a few ways to help you manage it: • Get some support: find sources of encouragement. This may be your family, friends, mentors or a freelancer society. You could connect with a local freelance group, co-working space or find an online community, for example.

• Stop comparing: newsflash: you’re not the perfect freelancer – no one is. So, stop comparing yourself to others, particularly through the distorted lens of social media.

• Embrace discomfort: if someone asks you to do something that scares you, do it. I often get asked to do radio interviews and give presentations. At first, imposter syndrome nearly overcame me as I didn’t feel qualified to talk about the topics people thought I was an expert in. Now, I’m far more comfortable with public speaking and sharing my knowledge.

• Stay true to yourself: however, if someone does ask you to do something way out of your remit, then tell them you don’t have the skill set and (if possible) recommend someone else.

• Focus on the positives: everyone’s a critic and, in our online times, it’s very easy for people to slate you from the comfort of their keyboard. Ignore the trolls and such negativity.

Instead, focus on your positive reviews and feedback, rewarding yourself when you’ve done great work and focusing on the value you bring to your clients.

September/ October 2019

© Madeleine Stuart

So, is imposter syndrome a good thing?

While it can provide you with a competitive edge, don’t let it take you over.

Every time that voice in your head starts to fill you with self-doubt, remember this: there’s nowhere to hide when freelancing, where your work is a testament to your success. A real imposter wouldn’t last five minutes as a freelancer.

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Navigating the mental minefield that is selfemployment

By Benedict Smith

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I

caught up with a close friend last week who also works for himself and, after exchanging pleasantries, we soon found ourselves talking about life as self-employed people. As is often the case when we chat about work, the conversation focused mostly on the impact that running a small enterprise can have on mental wellbeing.

If I remember rightly, my friend’s exact words were: “Self-employment can, if you’re not careful, f*** with your head a bit.” And I couldn’t help but nod my own head in agreement.

Working for yourself is brilliant – without doubt the best decision I’ve made so far in my career – but you do need to look after yourself.

Forget to and you won’t take care of your business. Or worse, you’ll lose sight of the things that are frankly much more important than work.

Starting, running and building a business is truly exciting, but I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t, at times, all-consuming, nerve-wracking and every so often, mentally exhausting. Where you have accountants to sort your tax, developers to build your website and other freelancers to help with your workload, I realised recently – and this is something I wish I’d known when I went solo four years ago – that you can’t farm out your mental wellbeing.

You need to look after you. This is painfully obvious of course, but also easy to forget about while you’re handling everything else that self-employment throws at you.

According to a survey by Yellow Brick, ‘burnout’ impacts a staggering 96 per cent of millennials every day, shocking really when you think about it. However, it does go to show that if you’re feeling overwhelmed, you aren’t on your own.

But how do we, as freelancers, contractors and entrepreneurs, take better care of ourselves mentally? How do we cope with something described as ‘chronic workplace stress’ that so many of us seem to suffer from?

At this point in the article, I feel I should add a disclaimer. I’m not a professional in this area, but through experience and having looked into these issues myself, I hope the following will be useful to you...

SAY ‘NO’ Politely saying ‘thanks, but no thanks’ to clients who are more trouble than they’re worth is fine too. Sure, it’s a risk, given work is rarely guaranteed for us. But in my experience, turning down projects with businesses that my gut instinct told me weren’t quite right has been liberating.

STAY ACTIVE Studies show that exercise releases endorphins that can improve mental health considerably. Personally, I find it the best way to switch off and escape – phone-free. I’m right in thinking that exercise even makes me feel sharper at work too. Specialists in this field say it helps us sleep better, boosts our energy levels throughout the day and, believe it or not, toughens us up. Yep, that’s right – exercise can make us more resilient.

FUEL YOURSELF The Mental Health Foundation claims there’s a link between diet and wellbeing. It makes a strong case for this too. After all, just like the liver and heart, the brain also needs the right fuel. I’m not for one minute arguing that nutrition cures mental health issues altogether, but there’s no doubt it helps our state of mind. That goes for the amount of alcohol we tuck away too. Like they say, everything in moderation.

Ultimately, you need to do what works for you. To state the obvious, wellbeing is personal. What helps me feel balanced, mentally healthy, happy, fit and firing might not be for you. That said, if any of the above helps just one person, in my opinion, writing this article has certainly been worthwhile.

SPEAK UP Slowly but surely, the stigma that was once attached to speaking about our feelings and mental health is eroding – particularly for men.

It’s now okay not to be okay. So, whether it’s visiting a qualified professional or being honest with a family member or friend, experts say that talking about how you feel is the best place to start.

REACH OUT The independent workforce is bigger, more diverse and more important to society and the economy than ever before. And 4.97 million self-employed workers in the UK is proof – if ever we needed it – that there are plenty of people out there who face similar challenges day in, day out.

From checking out organised meet-ups and attending networking groups, to grabbing a couple of drinks with a like-minded person, find your support system. Leaning on others who also ‘get it’ – whatever ‘it’ is – might just do you the world of good.

September/ October 2019

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Ask the expert Should contractors plan ahead for the 2020 IR35 reform?

T

James Foster, senior commercial manager at Optionis Group (holding company for SJD Accountancy)

he off-payroll tax rules, or IR35 as it is commonly known, is something that might well fill a contractor with dread. But the fact is the UK tax legislation’s 2020 reform, which many experts thought would be delayed, is now happening.

To know if you should plan ahead, it’s best to look at what exactly the IR35 reform is and who it affects.

From April 2020, the responsibility for assessing a contractor’s IR35 status (whether they are inside or outside IR35) in the private sector will shift from the contractor to the end client – the medium and large businesses that engage them. Small businesses are exempt from the reforms.

If you’re a private sector contractor, then this will apply to you and your future contracts. It’s best to make the most of the time you have before then to prepare for these changes.

To prepare for the reform, there are certain things you can do.

First, make sure you fully understanding what factors define your IR35 status, as this will help you with understanding IR35 decisions and with choosing future assignments.

You should also consider renegotiating your rates. If you’re found to be inside IR35, your take-home pay will be lower, as national insurance and PAYE are deducted. Renegotiating higher rates can help you achieve the same take-home pay as you did previously.

It’s also advisable to do your research or speak to an expert, such as an accountant. They can provide advice to make sure you stay on the right side of HMRC, while ensuring you keep operating in a tax-efficient way.

Do you have a question for our experts?

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HMRC recently wrote to 1,500 contractors at pharmaceutical firm GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) questioning their selfemployment status. If I receive a letter like this, how should I respond?

T

Alasdair Hutchison, policy development manager at IPSE

he letters from HMRC to contractors at GSK have caused a lot of concern and confusion.

The letters state that HMRC believe these individuals were operating inside the off-payroll working rules (IR35) in their contracts with GSK. HMRC go on to state that if the contractors accepted their GSK contract was caught by IR35, they should calculate their PAYE tax and National Insurance Contributions for the 2018/19 tax year and make payments by the twenty-second of the next tax month. If they disputed this, HMRC told them they “must” reply with evidence they were working outside IR35 by 19 September.

The first thing to stress is that these letters are only an informal request for information and do not have a legal underpinning. However, you should take them seriously and our advice is: do not ignore the letter if you do receive it.

If you already have a contract review certificate, you should be able to evidence that the arrangements under which you provided services to GSK were reviewed by professional advisers and found to be outside IR35.

If you have not undertaken a contract review, you will need to gather evidence that you are working outside IR35. This should cover these three key areas: mutuality of obligation, personal service/right to send a substitute and supervision, direction and control.

IPSE can offer contractors a contract review and detailed advice on how to respond. Visit our website for more information.

Email editor@modernworkmag.co.uk and get an edition of Modern Work – and the financial magazine My Money for FREE!

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September/ October 2019

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Networking, seminars & events NETWORKING: INTERIM & INDEPENDENT PROFESSIONALS NETWORKING NIGHT

During this panel you will have the opportunity to ask your questions regarding the topic. It will be followed by networking and refreshments.

JOIN the Interim & Independent Professionals Network for a night of informal networking, catching up on current market trends and swapping leads for potential contracts with other freelancers & micro-business owners.

This event is focused on peer-to-peer networking, covering topics from running your own business to attracting the right clients and working in the current political climate.

Details: Tuesday 22 October, The British Library Business & IP Centre, London

Details: Wednesday 2 October/ Wednesday 6 November, Slug and Lettuce, Wood St Aldermanbury, London, EC2V 7JQ. RSVP to attend via: bit.ly/IIPNnetworking

NETWORKING: FREELANCE FRIDAY

EVENT: MY MONEY, THE JOURNEY IPSE is inviting freelancers to take part in a game of My Money, the Journey, and explore different areas of finance. This interactive event will allow you to receive answers to your biggest freelance financial concerns.

There will be a range of industry experts on hand to offer insights and practical tips on setting up, finding work, wealth management and more.

The journey will be followed by networking and refreshments.

Details: Wednesday 16 October 2019, WeWork Spinningfields, Manchester and Tuesday 29 October 2019, Techspace Shoreditch, London

WEBINAR: SOCIAL SELLING 101 THE first thing to note about social selling, is that it isn’t about selling at all! It’s about establishing a personal brand, focusing on the right prospects and building relationships. In this back-to-basics session, chartered marketer and independent consultant Luan Wise will be sharing top tips for leveraging your social networks for business development.

The presentation will last for 30 minutes, with a Q&A opportunity at the end.

Details: Monday 14 October, 12.30-13.30

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THIS informal event is open to all freelancers, contractors and anyone who runs a micro-business. It is a relaxed networking and support group that offers the chance to find out about possible contract opportunities and to discuss business issues over a glass of wine.

Details: Friday 25 October and Friday 29 November, 17.00-19.00, Citizen M, Glasgow WEBINAR: STORIES FOR SOCIAL MEDIA CHARTERED marketer and independent consultant Luan Wise will talk about the rise of the stories feature on social media and what it means for your business.

Expect to leave with a better understanding of how this feature has changed the way we relate to businesses and how they can boost your connection and engagement with your followers.

The presentation will last for 30 minutes, with a Q&A opportunity at the end.

PANEL: START-UP STARS - HOW I BUILT MY BRAND

Details: Friday 11 November, 12.30-13.30

AT THE British Library Business and IP Centre's popular Start-Up Stars events you’ll hear from a panel of successful entrepreneurs on how developing a brilliant brand helped them grow their business.

The speakers will be sharing their hints and tips on establishing a ‘look and feel’ for your business that reflects its values, objectives and ethos.

The panel will also share their expertise and experience to answer some of your questions on how to build a brilliant business brand that speaks to the people who want to buy from you!

For more information or to book your spot at an event, visit modernworkmag.co.uk/events

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Join IPSE for an evening of financial advice and networking My Money, the Journey, is the new gamified event for the self-employed. We have a range of industry experts offering insights and practical tips on finding work, investments, mortgages, setting rates and more!

And you get all of this with a drink or two, a bite to eat and plenty of time to network. So, grab your friends and enter the game of My Money, the Journey. Are you ready to roll the dice?

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