I'm a bit stuck with my Certificate of Supervision application - I have to list the services that I offer and I'm not sure what to put. I dont want to offer more than I capable of, but I dont want to limit myself either.
Can anyone remember the kinds of services they offered when first starting out? What experiences you had, and where you think in hind-sight you may have bitten off more than you could chew, or where you had limited yourself unnecessarily?
Thanks for your help/input,
pDm :)
__________________
my blog "the bookkeeper's in town - learning the hard way"
Which governing body are you registered with? They all have their own lists of what you can and can't offer at varying levels of membership. Do you already have clients?
I'm a member of the IAB. I have asked them already what limitation they impose see seperate post. But it seems there are no restrictions other than those self-imposed; the only caveat being that under membership rules, I undertake no services I am not capable of providing. Fair enough really.
But this seems a little unhelpful in one respect, and very accomodating in another.
I'm just not sure where to start and what is a comfortable step on from basic bookkeeping (no such thing I know, but I'm sure you know what I mean).
-- Edited by pDm on Wednesday 19th of October 2011 09:15:19 PM
-- Edited by pDm on Wednesday 19th of October 2011 09:25:21 PM
__________________
my blog "the bookkeeper's in town - learning the hard way"
That's odd.....so the IAB will let you work for a Limited Company, preparing year end accounts, even if you have only started learning bookkeeping.(I know in practice you wouldn't do this, but even so).I used to think that the ICB were rather restricting in what you could and couldn't do, but I think it's good as at least you know what services you can offer and know where the boundaries are.
I would say offer those services that you feel most comfortable providing and that you have studied for....is the simple answer.What level are you at?Bookkeeping to Trial Balance, manual and computerised accounts, Final Accounts for sole traders/partnerships, Credit control, Cash flow statements, VAT returns, Payroll and Self-assessment if you are qualified in that area.
Hope that helps a little
Pauline
-- Edited by Stardoe on Thursday 20th of October 2011 05:25:31 PM
The ICB has been told it is too strict before, but the majority of people prefer guidance/rules, so it is nice to see it from the other side where there is non, and the member asking for it.
Why would you want to do something you don't know how to do anyway? (yes I know sometimes it is hard to prove you know it but still...)
Which qualifications did you do? Have a look at the syllabus for the qualifications you have gained, that will give you some area. Perhaps the IAB technical support would be able to give you a better idea on what your course covered.
If you let me know your qualifications I could give you a rough idea on what the ICB recommend.
I am a member of the IAB also having studied up to Level 4 Accounting to International Standards.
If it helps, I began by offering my services to Sole Traders and Partnerships only, advertising for bookkeeping, year end accounts and self assessment as this was what I felt most comfortable with.
In the early days, I did find that it was mostly small businesses that responded anyway.
Gradually as I gained more clients, more referrals and more confidence I added Ltd companies, VAT and Payroll. This was a natural progression as the bigger companies only seemed to approach me as I became more established.
I would say stick to what you feel comfortable with. Do not be afraid to turn away work which you feel daunted by and ask for help when you need it.
This way your confidence will grow with your clients.
Best of luck
__________________
Responses are not meant as a substitute for professional advice. Answers are intended as outline only the advice of a qualified professional with access to all relevant information should be sought before acting on any response given.
Hi everyone, thanks for your input. I have just completed my Supervision application with a clear conscience. I'll keep you posted as to how I get on. pDmx
__________________
my blog "the bookkeeper's in town - learning the hard way"
