There was an error. Please try again.
This page is already listed in your guide. Please choose a different page to add.
Being self-employed is not quite the same as being an entrepreneur, but there are lots of similarities. And lots of resources that can get you started on either path.
Entrepreneurs are nearly always self-employed, but self-employed people aren’t always entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs typically want to build growing businesses that employ staff. Self-employed people often prefer to work for themselves—without staff—and they don’t necessarily want to grow bigger.
Contractors, consultants, and freelancers are self-employed. They bid for work projects and provide products or services outlined in a contract. Unlike employees, they decide when and how their work gets done. Like entrepreneurs, they are responsible for managing the business side of their work. They deal with planning, financing, cash flows, marketing, sales, operations, technology, support services, and more.
Whether or not you are an entrepreneur, succeeding at self-employment starts with a good business idea. It also requires particular attitudes and traits, including drive, commitment, solid problem-solving skills, and a willingness to take smart risks.
Alis can help you find out and build the skills you’ll need.
An alis staff member will review your question and respond via email. If it’s something that can help others look for work, explore careers, or succeed on the job, a version of your question and answer may even be added to the site.
Your privacy is important. If your question is published to alis, your identity will remain anonymous. Your email address and any other personally identifiable information will not be posted to the site.
If you require immediate assistance, please call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre at 1-877-644-9992.