Starting own business?

Marisa P. on April 28, 2016

Career Change, Work/Life/Cancer Balance

Hello, I was wondering if you had any support or resources for people trying to freelance or start their own business? I was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2013 and had a full-time office position throughout treatment (chemo, bilateral mastectomy, and radiation) and for a period of time after before getting laid off. I am now trying to freelance and start my own business, because I am looking for more freedom, flexibility, and work / life balance with my work situation than I would get with most jobs in my field (market research). I've in the beginning phases, but any help / information with regard to starting up a business and networking opportunities would be amazing. Thanks, Marisa

2 Comments

Image of Sarah Goodell

Sarah Goodell

Apr 29, 2016

Cancer and Careers Staff Comment:

Hi Marisa,

Thanks for writing to us. It sounds like you've done some good thinking about what kind of work you want to do and what will work best for you. I've sent your question over to our coaches who will be in touch soon. In the meantime, I would recommend checking out the following resources, if you haven't already:

- Job Search Tools: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/looking-for-work/exploring-your-options/job-search-tools
- Guide to LinkedIn: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/looking-for-work/online-footprint/guide-to-linkedin
- Networking Tracker: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/grid/assets/networkingtracker.pdf
- Flexjobs (great resources for looking for flexible work options, there is a membership fee but if you enter the code CANCER you will get a 50% discount): https://www.flexjobs.com/

I hope that this is helpful, our coaches will be in touch soon.

Best,
Sarah, Manager of Programs, Cancer and Careers

Image of Bud Bilanich

Bud Bilanich

May 1, 2016

Career Coach Comment:

Marisa:
I’m sorry to hear about your diagnosis and subsequent treatment, but it sounds as if you have bounced back nicely. I hope that’s the case.
What type of marketing research do you do – qualitative or quantitative? In my experience many marketing research firms hire by the project and use free lancers. So I think you are in a good position.
I am happy to discuss this with you if you would like. Please let me know.
All the best,
Bud Bilanich

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