The Minefield of Civvy Self-Employment
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This one’s a legacy piece I pulled together in 2010, after 14 years of trial, error, and cock-ups on Civvy Street. I’d even considered expanding it into a full book at one point, but this guide is what came out of it. It’s blunt, sometimes funny, sometimes painful — but it’s real. If you’re thinking of going self-employed after service, or just want to avoid the mistakes I made, grab the PDF. It won’t make you rich overnight, but it might save you a few headaches (and a few quid).
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Lessons From the Front Line
This isn’t a glossy MBA textbook — it’s me passing on the bruises, scars, and beer-soaked lessons I wish someone had handed me before I tried setting up in business.
The stories inside are told in plain Jack-speak, not “management consultant guff.” They’re funny at times, blunt at others, and mostly about what not to do if you want your business to last beyond the first round.
And if the subject of business usually makes your eyes glaze over, don’t worry — there are even a few pictures to colour in. Feel free to get your crayons out… just don’t eat them if you’re from one of the branches renowned for it. You know who you are!
The stories inside are told in plain Jack-speak, not “management consultant guff.” They’re funny at times, blunt at others, and mostly about what not to do if you want your business to last beyond the first round.
And if the subject of business usually makes your eyes glaze over, don’t worry — there are even a few pictures to colour in. Feel free to get your crayons out… just don’t eat them if you’re from one of the branches renowned for it. You know who you are!
Who It’ll Help
This guide’s for veterans eyeing up Civvy Street and wondering if going self-employed is worth the hassle. It’s for anyone who’d rather hear the truth — the wins, the cock-ups, and the stuff nobody tells you — than another shiny “be your own boss” brochure. If you’re about to step on the same rakes I did, this might just help you sidestep a few.
Who It’ll Annoy
It’s not for people looking for a foolproof business plan or a guaranteed route to six figures. It’s not for anyone expecting motivational fluff about hustling 24/7. And if you think running a business is just about knocking up some business cards and setting up a Facebook page, save yourself the time — this isn’t for you.
Fun fact: people actually used to pay a tenner for this guide. You get it for free. The tips still stand, though a few bits are showing their age (like me).