Being an independent representative requires to work many more hours than if you worked for a company. You also have the freedom to go on vacation whenever you want, take long lunches, go home early, have long weekends and in general not work at all, if you want to starve.
Being your own boss also requires a lot of discipline in arranging appointments, being to all your meetings on time, having the right samples or literature to show and in general being a one-man office. You create a reputation and it’s up to you to make it a positive one.
I had worked for several European companies through my early career and had the freedom to act as trainer with regular paychecks, travel expenses, lunches with possible clients, and a very comfortable day-to-day life.
After many years of traveling, I was tired of making money for others and became an independent rep for the same companies who once hired me. Grumpy, who worked for the federal government for more than two decades, decided it was the most hideous thought I had in my life. I told him I believed in me.
Since I had already made my decision, I proceeded to resign from my position and go at it alone. No medical insurance, no life insurance, no paycheck, no expenses, no money.
Because I had worked the territory for many years, the first month I organized all my clients by State. I made reservations at the least expensive motels in whatever city I was to work. What a letdown; I was used to the Hilton, Marriot, Hyatt, Wyndham and other high-end hotels. I now am booked at the Red Roof Inn, Country Inn, Best Western and other local and less reputable ones. But I convinced myself once I get the orders coming in, I can go back to the better hotels.
Without a backup of orders, my first commission check was a paltry $56 for the whole month. The second month was better and by the third month at least I could pay the hotel bills.
I have never regretted the decision to go at it alone; after a couple of years, I was able to hire two sales reps and life was a lot easier since I was doing my own office work, and they were doing the actual leg work.
My most favorite day was when an architect or designer called me into their office to let me know of a new project being built which needed my expertise in deciding what sort of interiors I would recommend. I was happy to assist them. Their requests became my hunger for knowledge and through the years I was able to tackle some of the most intricate projects in the building industry, such as pharmaceuticals, laboratories, research and development and health care. I was successful because I believed.
If you’re thinking about going on your own, listen to your heart trying to run free of the shackles keeping you down. You are strong, intelligent, filled with dreams and wants and are able to succeed at whatever you value as your course in life. Believe in yourself.
Go for it, I did, and I have no regrets.
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