Have to agree Reputation stands for everything, If one person is happy then that will bring you more work. Worked with my dad self employed for a while, we're both Electricians and it's hard, not going to lie. Working for someone is a LOT easier, but you get a much lesser pay. If you don't get paid by a client for a job then there is basically nothing you can do, We always did a job 50/50 if it was fairly large, do half the work then ask for half the quote, then do the rest of the work. If they then don't pay at least you have half of your money to cover materials/fuel etc...Only ever had this happen once though so it's been alright! Work for a company now, much much easier, just have to deal with retarded charge hands and foreman lol...I do miss the extra money you get working for yourself, but can't be doing with the hassle anymore