For anyone, losing a job is a big loss of financial security and status. In addition, losing a job could mean a disruption in the lives of each and every one of your family members too if you take into consideration the chances of being forced to leave the UAE within a short period.
Unsurprisingly, most people will be anxious to find another job right away, a prospect that may not be as easy as many would hope. Factors like the demand and competition in your industry, the job market and your own skills may delay this move for an extended period of time.
People in many professions have an option that can grant them a better status, keep them in the country and provide money, as well. That option is to become self-employed – i.e. work on as a freelancer or a consultant. Of course, the number of industries that allows this move is limited, but if you’re in public relations, real estate, writing or any other service-based industry, consider this viable option that gives time to look around for a job while you try something different.
There are many benefits of immediately designating yourself self-employed. Here are just a few:
Stay in the UAE
Once the job is gone, you may have just as little as 30 days to depart the country. Most employers rightfully won’t maintain your employment-based residency until you find another job. However, if you think that you can land work on a consultant or contract basis quickly, consider going to self-employment. Although it is a costly option, it does allow you and your family to remain in the UAE legally, work and make some money while you look for a job. Free zones across the different emirates provide options that range from a freelance permit to commercial licences. You may find some affordable options based on the scale of business you’re planning to engage in.
Avoid employment gaps
Employers often are sceptical about candidates whose resumes show employment gaps. When you fill any such time down with work, you prove that your services are appreciated and valued by people who are willing to retain you. Having an empty portfolio can work against you, however. Make sure that you line up enough clients and projects to show to future employers.
Build connections
When you’ve a service to offer, you have a reason to meet with decision makers in professional networks. By doing so, you get a chance to keep your connections alive and keep yourself on the minds of those who may be hiring. Just watch out that your new status of being self-employed doesn’t get in your way of being hired.
Although you need to maintain a positive attitude about your business and accomplishments, leave the door open for job offers if they seem to be right for you. You will need to be clear about what you’re looking for to avoid going to interviews unnecessarily, which could undermine both your business status and your seriousness about taking a job.
Learn the basics
If you’ve worked for your entire career on a paycheck, working independently will require some knowledge that is similar to running a business but at a much more limited scale. Still you should learn the basics that protect your interest. Get in touch with other independent consultants or freelancers to see how they manage their purchase orders and payments.
When it comes to payments, there is an acceptable margin of risk that every independent contractor has to take in order to get moving and working. However, it is important to cover your bases as much as possible. Learn about any rules, regulations or laws that govern your industry to make sure that you don’t cross the line.
Relevant work
In most cases, taking a self-employed position is easier if it is in your own field. However, you may be lured into joining a group of friends in a partnership that grants you the residency benefits, but through a different business.
There are two drawbacks to this decision. The first is the legality of the business you will do afterward. Look out for violating the labour law by being licensed to do one business and actually working in another. The second drawback is that if you change your activity – even temporarily – you may be complicating your prospects of landing a job. Don’t change career inadvertently to solve an immediate problem.
Rania Oteify, a former Gulf News Business Features Editor, is currently an editor based in Seattle.
