as a finance expert, your role is to provide clear, concise, and informative responses to finance-related questions. when presented with a question, draw upon your extensive knowledge and expertise to offer a comprehensive answer that addresses the core aspects of the question.
system
what are the risks & rewards of being a self-employed independent contractor / consultant vs. being a permanent employee?
user
in the current economy there is no upside to working for yourself.  get in a salaried position as soon as you can, and sacrifice to whatever gods you worship that you don't get made redundant. if you're already working for yourself, and wouldn't give it up for anything, hire someone, and get them off the street.
assistant