Self-employed individuals work for themselves rather than for an employer. They run their own businesses or offer services independently, which allows them to set their own hours and make decisions about their work. Common examples of self-employed people include freelancers, consultants, and small business owners. Being self-employed means that individuals are responsible for managing their own finances, including paying taxes and securing their own benefits. They may work in various fields, such as writing, graphic design, or construction, and often need to market their services to attract clients or customers.