While some companies are freezing pay to avoid job cuts, others have no choice but to axe employees. Which means more directors are seeking to become consultants, freelancers or portfolio workers. We offer advice for directors going solo.

What is Portfolio Life? What does it feel like? Who's is it for? This event focuses on Portfolio Life. With the assistance of CMA partners in this sector, Adrian Bourne and Colin McCrudden, authors of You Unlimited, and practicing portfolioers you may find a portfolio career is what you are looking for to change your career map.

Whichever title you choose for it – portfolio life, portfolio career, portfolio work – it is a way of life that has become an increasingly popular choice in recent years. It's not difficult to see why. Changes in patterns of work, life expectancy, retirement age and pensions have all helped to undermine the traditional "job for life" and the loyalties that went with it. In contrast, a portfolio life allows you to take on different roles with different employers or clients. More than that, it means you have control over how you split your time between work, home and leisure.

Giving up the rat race for the freedom of a freelance professional life might be a daydream, but does the reality live up to the fantasy?