In today's modern world, the need for flexibility around work is increasing. While employers are sometimes able to provide staff with working from home or flexi-time options, it's not always possible. Almost half (44%) of the rise in employment since 2010 has been down to the self employed, according to the TUC. Freelancing is one of the best ways to take control over what work you take on, and when.
But it can be difficult to know when and how to take the leap, and unlike other career paths, there is no defined or recommended route. Managing your finances and workload are just two of the crucial steps you need to take to survive this alternative way of earning your keep.
Some roles have a natural tendency towards freelancing, such as journalism and writing or creative industries, such as illustration or design, but there are lots of opportunities out there for other career paths. So whether you're already working for yourself, or want to know how to make the move, ask our experts on Thursday 15 May from 2pm to 4pm (BST).
We'll be discussing:
• What to consider when deciding whether to work for yourself
• How to get started and where to look for opportunities
• Marketing your business or services
• Tax, business accounts and other financial considerations
The Q&A takes place in the comments section below this article. Taking part is easier than ever: you can create a free Guardian account, or log in using your Twitter or Facebook profiles to comment. Alternatively, you can tweet us @GuardianCareers or email your questions to Hannah Friend who can post them for you.
Our panel
Joel Dullroy is a co-ordinator of the European freelancers' movement, a campaign to improve conditions for independent workers. He is also editor of the e-book "Independents Unite! Inside the Freelancers' Rights Movement". Based in Berlin, Joel is a freelance journalist, organizer and entrepreneur. You can follow him @joeldullroy.
Frank Fenten is managing director of digital marketing agency We Love the Web. Over the past decade, Frank and his team have delivered more than 500 web projects from their offices in Hebden Bridge, for clients ranging from Adidas to Yorkshire Water.
Joe Wiggins is a senior community manager at Glassdoor, the jobs and careers community. He is 100% home-based, and works with colleagues in San Francisco. Prior to this, he was freelance for three years as a self-employed PR consultant. He set up and ran his own limited company, and was responsible for everything from business development and marketing, to SEO and client management. You can follow @GlassdoorUK.
Lucinda Moores heads up the interim management practice at global corporate and marketing communications recruiter, VMA Group. She has an extensive background in recruitment, specialising in freelance and interim roles. You can follow @VMAGroup.
Jon Norris is the editor of Freelance Advisor, a blog that produces daily news, advice, guides and information for the freelancing community. He also works as a freelance writer for the likes of The Next Web, Entrepreneur Magazine and Freelancing Matters.
Lydia Fairman is a qualified HR and resourcing specialist, who set up her own consultancy business, Fairman Consulting, 12 months ago. Lydia managed the start up alone, from home, dealing with everything from incorporation, VAT, bank accounts, competitor research, marketing and social media. She also has experience helping companies recruit and employ freelancers and contractors. You can follow @FairConsult.
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