Q: “Is it advisable for someone early in their career to become an independent UX designer/UX researcher? If so, what advice do you have?”

A: Typically, I do not recommend becoming an independent UX/UXR earlier in one's career for a few reasons.

First, working on a UX mature team will help them accelerate their craft because there will likely be people to learn from/provide guidance, AND systems and processes in place (to support core UX activities such as recruiting, prioritizing, designing/conducting, reporting, archiving, etc.). Independents need to create professional support systems as well as tactical systems and processes (which are distractions from doing actual craft but very necessary).

Second, I’d prefer for them to focus on learning and improving their own UX/UXR craft rather than figuring things out like pricing, sales, billing, and marketing. Again, these are distractions from the craft but necessary when independent.

Third, you want to have enough confidence and experience in your craft as possible when you become fully independent. If you are not super confident in your own skills and don’t have a deep set of experiences to draw from, it will be harder to sell your services to others. Track records speak volumes. Becoming an independent earlier in your career means a shorter track and less experience to draw from.

Fourth, I encourage people not to think about UX/UXR independence as an “either-or” choice. Meaning, you do not have to be either:

1. Fully independent or 

2. A full-time employee

There are a lot of hybrid situations in between. For example, many independents start off “moonlighting” (e.g. working on their craft on the side) to get a better feel for it and build their skills. This is the path I took and it worked out very well! NOTE: Check whether your employer has a moonlighting policy and if so, ensure you are in compliance.

Lastly, let’s keep in mind everyone's situation is very different! If independence will determine if you can feed your family or not, or if you are in an unsafe/unhealthy situation, you need to do what is right for you. Always put your own oxygen mask on first.

FYI - Saturday we held our two-hour event focused on UX/UXR independence and consulting. There were 25 live attendees from five countries. Our time was split roughly between fundamentals/considerations and a really robust Q&A.

The recording is available now and the link is in the comments.

Note: This image is from the economic times and appeared in an article on a similar topic