Starter Guide

Thinking of going fractional?

Everything you need to know about building a successful fractional career - from what it means to how to get your first client.

What is fractional work?

A fractional professional is a senior expert who works with multiple businesses on a part-time or project basis - typically 1-3 days per week per client. Think of it as being a CFO, CTO, or Head of Marketing for several companies simultaneously, rather than one full-time.

Unlike traditional consulting, fractional roles are embedded - you're part of the leadership team, attending meetings, making decisions, and driving outcomes. You just do it across a portfolio of businesses.

Why go fractional?

The benefits of a portfolio career

Higher earning potential

Top fractionals earn more than equivalent full-time roles by working with multiple clients and setting their own day rates.

Flexibility & autonomy

Choose when, where, and how much you work. Design a schedule that fits your life, not the other way around.

Varied, stimulating work

Work across different industries, company stages, and challenges. No two weeks are the same.

Accelerated growth

Exposure to multiple business models and leadership teams sharpens your skills faster than any single role.

Impact at scale

Help more businesses succeed. Your expertise reaches further when it's not locked into one organisation.

Reduced risk

Income diversified across clients means you're not dependent on a single employer's fortunes.

Is fractional work right for you?

Fractional work suits experienced professionals who have:

10+ years of experience in your function
Held senior or leadership positions
Strong network and personal brand
Comfort with ambiguity and context-switching
Ability to deliver results quickly
Desire for autonomy and portfolio career
Experience across multiple industries or company stages
Self-discipline to manage your own pipeline
Checklist

Your fractional launch checklist

Follow these steps to set yourself up for success

1

Define your niche

What roles, industries, and company stages are you best suited for? The more specific, the easier it is to market yourself.

2

Set your rate

Research day rates for your function and experience level. Consider pricing by day (typically £500–£2,500/day in the UK) rather than hourly.

3

Build your brand

Update your LinkedIn headline to include 'Fractional'. Write about your expertise. Get testimonials from past clients or employers.

4

Sort the admin

Set up a limited company or use an umbrella. Get professional indemnity insurance. Prepare a simple contract template.

5

Create your profile on FindYourFractional

Showcase your experience, skills, and availability. Get discovered by businesses looking for exactly what you offer.

6

Start networking

Join our community, connect with other fractionals, attend events, and let your network know you're available.

7

Land your first client

Apply to jobs on our board, respond to inbound enquiries, and leverage your existing network. Most fractionals find their first client within 4-8 weeks.

Ready to start your fractional career?

Create your free profile in 5 minutes and start getting discovered by businesses across the UK and Europe.

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