New to forum - looking to start on my own may be

[Olgkasa]

Hi there

Thanks for letting me join your forum. I've been a reader of Soapbox for while now and this is my first time on the forum.

I currently don't have my own business however am thinking of one. I'm still sleeping on my idea/ research. I work as an Assistant Accountant for a large corporation and studying CPA (half way through) and am in my '30 something and over it' phase of life when the meaning of life/ work balance is becoming one of the essential parts.

I'm thinking of a bookkeeping business however here comes the use of studying CPA and past experience and a cut back in wages (for sometime anyway).

Anyhow, I will be glad to hear from people who passed this stage or in the same boat.. or anyone who can contribute some thoughts.

Olga

[FS Concierge]

Hi Olga and welcome to the forums
There are plenty of bookkeepers around here, so I'm sure they will be happy to contribute their 2 cents worth to your current thinking.

Good luck in your research!

[LeelaCosgrove]

Hey Olga,

I recommend doing a few educational courses before you get started. I know SO many people who started their own businesses in order to have a life and then ended up working 65-75 hours + a week for the same (or less!) pay than they would have earned in a job.

This IS avoidable - it's all about planning the business out before you jump in, learning all about how to systemise, how to productise, how to outsource effectively, etc. Once you've got a plan that has these things in place you'll be more likely able to create the lifestyle business you want.

These forums are a great place to start, but from there I would strongly suggest looking into the myriad of paid courses on offer.

[Olgkasa]

Hi Leela,

Thanks very much for your post!

I have checked out your website, great job you do! I'm looking now at a few courses to do, mainly professional though, including MYOB training. Although there a few good ones from SBDC that I'm looking to do, probably about starting a business and marketing. Also I'm looking at joining ICB.

I'm finding it's challenging though to be motivated sometimes after a day at work.. the idea of working for myself or at least being a partner in a new venture sounds out of a different world when I'm now in my 'real' day job..

What other courses would you recommend?

[PowerofWords]

Hi, I agree with what Leela is saying. It's great to have the expertise in your field, but then you also need business, sales and marketing skills or you will not survive. I'm writing an ebook on starting your own service business, so would love to have your feedback.

Cheers Jennifer

[gyelas]

Definately plan plan plan. Do your research and do something your passionate about. The basics of business is making someone's life better. So strive to solve someones problem/pain point which you could definately do book keeping. As i know i love to throw all my receipts expenses and everything to my book keeper she is a life saver :-)

So its all about marketing your unique selling proposition over other competitors thats where good market research is invaluable :-)