Hi, I am planning on setting up a small book keeping business in January. Any advice on marketing or how to get myself known to local small businesses would be much appreciated. Thanks.
There are a few things you can do..... 1. Cards in newagents / postoffices - particularly those around small industrial units. 2. Place a small add in your local paper. 3. Produce a flyer, either post or hand deliver to business/shops within your area - include accountants. Keep an eye open for any new shops/business opening up. 4. See if there are any local business networks you can join. 5. Also if there are any local start-up initiatives run by your local council / chamber of commerce.
That's very helpful thanks very much. I am planning on contacting Business Link regarding local business breakfasts etc and have just joined the Institute of Certified Book Keepers as a student as I want to get my qualifications as well to give me a bit more credibility. I was hoping just to temp for a while in Jan/Feb whilst I get myself on my feet. It's exciting to finally be doing something I want to do but a bit scary as well!!
Do you work for yourself - if so do you prefer it to normal employment? Most people I speak to who are self employed wouldn't go back, which is the main reason I've decided to finally take the plunge.
Yes, I work for myself, have been for the past few months. After working for the last 8 years in a 9 - 5 job, working my way up to the heady heights of office manager, I had a bit of a wake up call regarding my health. Nothing serious, but a time to take stock.
I approached my employer with the request to reduce my hours and look at either part time / job share, his response was deafening !! So I made the decision to go solo. Just making my mind up to go it alone has been a very liberating experience.
Although I have a long way to go in terms of building up my `empire`, I am enjoying every minute of it and you will too.
Julie has definitely given some good ideas, and it always helps when someone has "been there and done that".
I'd also say keep your eyes and ears open. You may find businesses in the area looking and advertising for a bookkeeper. Providing them an outsourced option, especially when they only need someone part-time can be quite appealing.
As mentioned with local networks, any opportunity to build relationships with local business can help. It's not usually the quickest way to get business, but over time it can become the strongest.
Forming relationships with those that deal with businesses can be most beneficial, particularly if they deal with new business such as graphic designers, banks, and solicitors.
One thing that may help, is to get involved in the local community. There may be small ways you can get yourself known, such as sponsoring local charities. This could be done by providing a small amount of services.
