From PR Employee to Thriving Fractional Worker: How She Tripled Her Income

Rachael De Foe was exhausted by her public relations career, leading her to make a bold move that many consider but few execute—quitting her stable nine-to-five role without another opportunity waiting.

Having been in the PR world for years, Rachael garnered experience in environments ranging from major agencies to niche firms. She described the perpetual imbalance in agencies: too many clients demanded larger teams, which in turn required taking on even more clients.

At some point, Rachael realized she couldn't see herself advancing to the positions of her superiors, which prompted her to resign at the end of 2019.

Fast forward to today, Rachael, at 31, is flourishing as a fractional communications executive with her own firm, Redefy, established in 2020. This venture allowed her to leap into financial success, growing her earnings significantly.

Taking a Leap without a Safety Net

After leaving her job, Rachael intended to enjoy a break over the holiday season before seeking new employment in the new year. Initially unsure of her path forward, every job she considered seemed to mirror the same unappealing patterns she'd left behind.

Then the unexpected COVID-19 pandemic struck in early 2020, heightening uncertainties. She faced a market where public relations roles were among the first to be slashed.

Despite these challenges, the pandemic opened up novel possibilities. Companies began seeking efficient solutions for their pared-down communications needs, giving Rachael the chance to offer her expertise as a sought-after consultant.

Requests for her services during this time transitioned her ad hoc freelancing into a structured business. She formally established her role as a fractional communications leader.

The Appeal of Fractional Work

Unlike traditional freelancers hired for specific tasks, fractional workers take on strategic roles within companies, but serve multiple clients on a part-time basis. This approach suited Rachael, who now decides her work schedule and projects.

Rachael enjoys the freedom of reporting to three different CEOs while being her own CEO, a setup that has eradicated the burnout cycle she'd previously endured. She chooses which projects to undertake according to her interests, propelling her career forward.

She observes that many former senior personnel from her past workplaces are also embracing fractional roles, drawn by the autonomy and potential for greater income.

In service-oriented sectors, being the brand is crucial, Rachael notes. Prospective clients approach her for her personal touch and expertise, irrespective of whether she is part of a large organization or independent.

Her typical roster now includes three to five clients at a time, allowing her both enhanced flexibility and financial rewards. In the past five years, Rachael has earned over one million dollars from her fractional endeavors.

Strongly affirming her stance, Rachael declares, "I will never return to having a single boss. I've found a much more satisfying and fulfilling path, enabling me to pursue what truly matters to me."