Chapter 17

Starting Up On Your Own

In This Chapter

arrow.png Figuring out whether you want to take the plunge

arrow.png Getting your paperwork and qualifications in place

arrow.png Setting up a new bookkeeping business and making some key decisions

arrow.png Creating a business that’s successful, and everything you want it to be

Are you someone who values independence, loves the idea of small business and possibly needs more flexibility than a regular job allows? Then starting up your own bookkeeping business may be the answer.

The challenges of running a good bookkeeping business are quite different to the challenges of learning how to be a good bookkeeper. You need to create a business plan, figure out how much to charge, craft a marketing strategy and look at ways to differentiate yourself from others.

In this chapter, I explore the good — and the bad — things about being a contract bookkeeper. I also talk about the qualifications and skills you’ll need before you start trading, and share some down-to-earth advice about building a successful business.

Deciding Whether You’re Ready

I love being self-employed. I’ve been ...

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