Agency Worker Regulations (AWR): What is AWR?

Agency Workers Regulations aim to combat discrimination of people who work for employment agencies, by stating that agency workers should be no less favourably treated in pay and working time than their full-time counterparts, who do the same work. Similar to IR35, the guidance is designed to ensure fair treatment of contractors and freelancers, and ensure that … Read more

The Last Question by Isaac Asimov

The last question was asked for the first time, half in jest, on May 21, 2061, at a time when humanity first  stepped into the light. The question came about as a result of a five dollar bet over highballs, and it  happened this way:  Alexander Adell and Bertram Lupov were two of the faithful … Read more

How to overcome procrastination driven by anxiety

This model for overcoming procrastination driven by anxiety illustrates some of the emotional and behavioural “knots” underlying some forms of procrastination. Solutions for anxiety-driven procrastination The dominant loop here is the cycle of anxiety and overwhelm.  Anxiety is difficult to address directly. Thus, we have to look elsewhere for leverage points in this system. I … Read more

What are Employee Ownership Trusts?

By moving the ownership of the business into an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), founders can realise financial value over time but preserve the company’s culture, values, and independence for the long run. What are Employee Ownership Trusts? The EOT is a mechanism for transferring the majority of the equity from the owners of the business … Read more

AI Beginner’s Reading List

This AI Reading List was put together by Jack Soslow and shared as a Google Doc, so I’ve republished here in case that list goes missing. The reading list is aimed towards the AI curious looking to go down the rabbit hole not the AI expert. The original list was list was inspired by The … Read more

Rules for good leadership

Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work directly with a number of leaders. I define these as people who lead their own teams and organisations. What makes some of them good leaders? My answer is personal and subjective. Note the “some of them” reference. Being good at your profession does not necessarily … Read more

Tips for new fathers (or, how to dad good)

I find most writing on how to be a good father quite patronising. Instead, I’ve collected the most practical advice for new dads into one place. It will grow over time, as will babies and the parents that look after them. Further advice, anecdata, exceptions that prove the rule, etc, are welcome in the comments. … Read more

Challenges in growing an agency

Once upon a time, marketing agencies were profitable businesses.  They were tough to get into and get the first few accounts, but  competition was reasonable and the business model provided  sufficient profit margins.  Today, that is no longer the case. It is very easy to get into the  business, but it’s very hard to grow … Read more

Freelance in 30 Days Book: Get the confidence and knowledge to succeed at going freelance

The freelance book that helps you get the confidence and knowledge to thrive in your new freelance career. Do you want to build the confidence to finally go freelance? Do you want the freedom and flexibility that comes from being your own boss? Do you want to be a creative and productive freelancer? Answer "Yes" to these … Read more

About Ben Matthews

Hello, I’m Ben Matthews Based in London Co-Founder and Director at Empower Brief summary of my story so far: Contact me Want to ask me something? Email me at [email protected] Book My book, Freelance in 30 Days, is out now