Are you thinking about leaving your full-time job to work for yourself? You’re not alone. Each year, millions of professionals are transitioning into flexible, independent careers without compromising their income or stability. Whether you’re freelancing on the side or exploring your next big move, this roadmap highlights growing self-employment jobs that align with today’s solo economy.
Discover roles that are in demand right now, from fractional leadership to creative freelance work. These paths are more accessible than ever and built for the way you want to work.
Explore the top-growing solo job opportunities
Remote work, project-based contracts, and fractional hiring have reshaped how businesses engage talent. More companies now rely on specialized solo workers to fill leadership gaps, execute projects, and drive results without hiring full-time staff.
If you’re ready to leave traditional employment, these self-employment jobs offer flexibility, growing demand, and scalable potential.
1. Fractional marketing consultant
Small businesses often require strategic marketing leadership, but not necessarily full-time. Fractional consultants shape brand strategy, lead teams, and oversee campaigns, typically part-time or project-based.
This role fits experienced marketers who want autonomy and variety. Fractional marketing opportunities are expanding, especially in early-stage and fast-growing companies that value flexible expertise.
2. Fractional sales leader
Revenue growth is a top priority for early-stage and scaling companies, but many can’t justify a full-time sales executive. That’s where fractional sales leaders come in. These professionals build pipelines, manage sales teams, and refine go-to-market strategies on a flexible, contract basis.
If you have experience leading sales teams and want more autonomy in how and when you work, this role offers both freedom and impact. Companies are actively hiring for fractional sales leadership roles, especially in B2B, SaaS, and professional services.
3. Fractional HR/People Ops
Hiring, onboarding, compliance, and culture-building all require strategic attention, but not every company needs a full-time HR executive. Fractional HR and People Ops professionals support small teams with scalable solutions, from benefits planning to team development.
This role is in high demand among startups and remote-first companies seeking experienced HR support without the associated overhead. Explore top places to find fractional HR jobs and build a solo career rooted in people strategy.
4. Virtual assistant
Virtual assistants (VAs) handle essential tasks that keep businesses running smoothly, including calendar management, inbox organization, customer support, and research. This highly flexible role offers opportunities across nearly every industry.
Self-employed virtual assistants (VAs) can work with multiple clients and set their own hours, making them an ideal entry point for solo work. Demand for skilled virtual assistants continues to grow through freelance platforms and direct referrals.
5. Freelance writer or editor
Freelance writers and editors help brands communicate clearly through blog content, newsletters, case studies, and more. This work is in demand among startups, agencies, and online businesses that rely on digital content to drive engagement.
Writers and editors who specialize in a niche, build strong portfolios, and maintain deadlines can turn this into a steady, flexible career. Freelance platforms provide access to writing jobs across various industries, ranging from SEO content creation to technical editing.
6. Graphic designer or brand strategist
Design is central to how businesses present themselves, and many hire independent pros for logos, branding, web assets, and social media templates. Solo designers bring visual clarity to teams that lack in-house talent.
This work seamlessly blends creativity and business strategy, consistently demanded by startups and agencies. A strong niche and a clear portfolio help designers stand out from the crowd.
7. Freelance photographer or videographer
Visual content is essential for marketing and storytelling, especially in a digital-first economy. Freelance photographers and videographers work with clients from real estate and restaurants to startups and creators.
Specializing in a niche, such as product photography or branded video, can increase earning potential. Local networking, social media, and platforms like Thumbtack or Fiverr can help build a steady stream of solo work.
8. Business operations/fractional COO
Fractional COOs help fast-moving businesses stay organized by overseeing operations, streamlining systems, and freeing up founders to focus on growth.
This role suits experienced operators who bring structure to scaling companies, without the cost of a full-time hire.
9. Tech or automation specialist
From CRM integrations to workflow automation, businesses increasingly rely on solo tech experts to improve efficiency and scale smarter. Self-employed automation specialists build solutions that save time, reduce errors, and eliminate repetitive tasks.
This role is in high demand across various industries, including commerce, real estate, and professional services. Freelance platforms connect automation experts with clients who require custom setups, system audits, and on-demand technical support.
Tips for landing work in your chosen path
Finding your next opportunity as a business of one takes more than talent—it takes intention. Whether you’re pivoting from a corporate role or expanding a freelance career, small strategic moves now can lead to more freedom, stability, and income later.
Use fractional job boards
General freelance marketplaces can be crowded and inconsistent. Fractional job boards offer higher-quality leads and roles that align with solo professionals seeking long-term, high-impact work.
- Targeted platforms save time by filtering for fractional and part-time leadership roles
- Roles often come from growing startups or founder-led companies
- Higher rates and more structured engagements are common
You’ll find curated roles on specialized platforms designed for solo professionals. Find vetted roles in this fractional job board guide for 2025 to get started.
Optimize your online presence
Your digital profile is often your first interview. Take time to build a personal brand that reflects your strengths, niche, and professionalism.
- Use LinkedIn to showcase your expertise with a clear headline and recent project wins
- Build a simple portfolio site with case studies and testimonials
- Be specific about your niche—generalists rarely win in today’s solo economy
Get systems in place for back-office work
Clients expect professionalism, and systems make it easier to deliver. Automating admin work lets you focus on results, not paperwork.
- Use invoicing tools to get paid faster
- Automate client onboarding with reusable templates
- Explore Besolo’s admin tools to manage taxes, compliance, and operations in one place
Make the shift with the right systems in place
Self-employment doesn’t have to mean figuring everything out alone. With the right roles, platforms, and support, you can build a business that runs smoothly and grows sustainably.
Besolo is more than a tool—it’s a complete platform built for business-of-one professionals who want to streamline all of their back office and benefits operations. From tax strategy and payroll to benefits and admin tools, Besolo helps you operate with confidence and grow on your terms with expert human support/tax assistance.
Are you ready to simplify the business side of self-employment so you can focus on the work you love? Join Besolo today and take your next step with clarity and control.
