I am thinking of purchasing the Bookcert package and wonder if anybody has any views or experience in this. Like most people on this forum, I want to leave the 9 to 5 behind and work for myself. I have the bookkeeping experience and qualifications but feel overwhelmed at starting from scratch.
I can't say much about Bookcert but anything that might help you get going is worth looking at.
There can be a lot to consider when starting out, and the single biggest issue can quickly become cashflow if you rely on the business to support you (not to mention a family).
If you can get any flexible time with current employment or reduce it to part-time it can certainly help whilst you get your business going.
Just take things step by step, arm yourself with the tools to do the job... then some things to help you sell and promote those 'tools'. The start is almost always the hardest, so a little easier if you break it down into manageable chunks.
As for 9-5... often those self-employed do end up working longer hours, but it really is what you make of it and what you want to do. I'd be curious to see what you would like now from it, and if that changes once you get going.
In answer to your question `what (you) would like from it,`......
I am employed as an Office Manager / Bookkeeper, I have been with the same company for many years. I have reached that certain age when my youngest is now at secondary school and I am left asking myself, `is this really what I want out of life, ie; 9 to 5 etc.,`. I look at my boss and see how NOT to run a business. I have done some freelance work for sole traders that I come into contact with during the course of my day job, and I have really enjoyed the challenge and freedom that comes from doing something yourself.
I have taken the plunge to go part time (much to my bosses anoyance) and feel the time is ready for me to come out of the shadow of being a wife, mother, employee and see what I can do for `me`.
So, in answer to your question, I would prefer to work for me as opposed to someone else dictating the pace. Long hours there may well be ahead, but Im going to enjoy it.
Thanks for your advice, I know now what I need to concentrate on.
I certainly understand and appreciate where you're coming from.
I only meant that if you do want flexibility and freedom, keep that in mind as it can become something that may take even more than the 9-5 job and seem to take away freedom... just that you can have the control to make it what you want.
Not asking, or trying to judge your particular situation... but relying too heavily on immediate income from a new business can be difficult. You may not need to rely on it too quickly, or even at all (and you would be in a good position and 'lucky').
I can imagine learning 'how not to run a business'. LOL You'll probably see it just as much when dealing with clients!
Sounds great that you've also had the freelance experience. Are you able to get any of those as regular clients now? Might be a good spot to start with getting clients on board, or possibly referrals.
Just curious... what part do you find overwhelming? Is it setting up the business itself, getting new clients, working by yourself?
If there's anything you think we can also do to help please let me know. Hopefully someone will also be able to give you some feedback on Bookcert as it may help you with a step forward too.
