Key question
Which working model suits your life?
Designers work as employees, freelancers, or in hybrid arrangements. Each model offers its own opportunities and requires its own planning. There is no single right model, but rather one that suits your current stage of life.
Learning objective: You can compare working models, identify their strengths and challenges, and know how to protect yourself whether employed or self-employed.
The best model fits your stage of life.
2.1 / Overview of models
Employed, self-employed or both.
The most common models in design:
01
Employed
Regular salary, employer-provided social security, a supportive team, and opportunities for further training.
02
Self-employed
Freedom to choose projects and hours; responsibility for income, pension and administration.
03
Part-time and hybrid models
Employment with your own project, teaching, or a portfolio career.
04
Collective
Several self-employed individuals share space, contracts and knowledge.
Many people make a switch during their career: starting out as an employee to learn and build a network, then later becoming self-employed or working part-time alongside their own project.
Each model has its strengths.
2.2 / Well protected
Well prepared is half the worry gone.
Employees are generally insured through their employer for AHV (state pension), occupational pension and accident insurance. Those who are self-employed are not only responsible for the creative work, but also for client acquisition, quotations, bookkeeping, insurance and social security; in Switzerland, this includes registering with an AHV compensation fund.
A good start is often achieved gradually: initially alongside regular employment, with a few regular clients and clear pricing. A financial cushion for a few months, clear payment terms, and multiple clients will give you more independence; moreover, having multiple clients is a requirement for the compensation office to recognise you as self-employed. Compensation offices, professional associations, and the federal SME portal offer advice and templates.
Precaution creates freedom.
2.3 / Understanding the employment contract
Those who know their rights negotiate better.
An employment contract governs salary, working hours, holiday entitlement, probationary period, notice periods, and how overtime is handled. Read it carefully before signing and ask about anything that is unclear.
Further training, working from home and secondary employment can also be agreed upon. Trade unions and professional associations offer model contracts and advice. Contracts with clients and the rights to your work are covered in Chapter 05.
Asking questions before signing is professional.
Exercise
My model for the coming years
Task: Outline your working model for the next three years.
STEP 1
Note down what is important to you in your job.
STEP 2
Compare two models using the tool.
STEP 3
Speak to an employed person and a self-employed person.
STEP 4
Record which steps and precautions your model requires.
Evaluation: Which precautions does your model need?