How to turn your hobby into a job – live chat
With Brits working some of the longest hours in Europe, and technology creating a round-the-clock workplace, the notion of leisure time is fading fast.
Pursuing work that you are passionate about is well-worn career advice. But quitting a job to do this is unachievable for most workers, who need the financial security of a salary and employment benefits.
Despite the risks involved, there are countless examples of people who have taken the leap of faith and found a way turn their hobbies into reliable sources of income. Technology makes it easier than ever to set up businesses, work flexibly, or have money making side-hustles based on these hobbies.
According to a study, more than one in 10 British workers have quit their jobs to pursue something they are passionate about. The study also found that people who pursue their passions have increased productivity and job satisfaction.
Whether it’s a passion for food, craft, fitness or design, do you dream about turning your hobby into a career? Join us on Wednesday 12 April from 1pm–2.30pm BST for a live chat with our expert panel. We’ll be discussing:
Advice on making money from your hobbies and managing your income.
How to know whether it is a good idea to quit a job.
Ways to build your brand and reputation when entering your new field as a professional, rather than amateur.
The Q&A takes place in the comments section below. Taking part is easier than ever: to comment, create a free Guardian account or log in using your Twitter or Facebook profile. Alternatively, tweet us @GuardianCareers or email your questions to sarah.shearman@theguardian.com who can post them for you.
The panel
June Angelides is the founder of Mums in Technology, the first child-friendly coding school in the UK. She champions diversity in tech and helps parents gain confidence with digital skills, start new business ventures and grow their networks.
Alison Battisby is an experienced social media consultant and founder of Avocado Social. She has been involved with social media projects for brands including Nokia, Tesco and Pringles, as well as a range of UK start-ups and growing enterprises.
Denise Beedell is a development manager for the Federation of Small Businesses, supporting members in the Greater London area through advocacy, research and in the media. She used to run her own clothing design business, for children with physical challenges and disabilities.
Nicola Bird left her corporate job after the birth of her first child and trained as a transformative coach. She then created and sold an online coaching software business. Her latest venture, A Little Peace of Mind is on online platform to help people with stress and anxiety.
Lydia Fairman is an HR and resourcing specialist, who owns recruitment consultancy, Fairman Consulting. She offers free CV advice, interview guidance and writes careers blogs to help job seekers stand out and succeed. She also works with a variety of clients and is currently consulting for Network Rail.
Andrew Fennell is an experienced recruiter across multiple industries, founder of CV writing service StandOut CV and author of How to write a CV.
Leyla Kazim is a London-based freelance writer, photographer, blogger, and digital influencer, specialising in food and travel. She shares her stories through her blog The Cutlery Chronicles, social media and a number of online and print publications. She is also the founder of London Cheap Eats, the online food guide.
Martha Keith is the founder and managing director of stationery business Love Give Ink. In 2013 Martha left a corporate job in healthcare. Love Give Ink has grown rapidly over the last three years and now employs an eight person team in its West London office.
Sam O’Connor is co-founder and chief executive of Coconut, a bank account for freelancers, which aims to make it easier to work for yourself. He started out at PwC and became a freelancer after selling his first business.
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