All about being self-employed

Self-employed List of Categories

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How do I get started?
What's the hardest aspect of working from home?
How do I address the isolation issue?
What's the first step in getting myself organized?
What's the second step in getting myself organized?
What's the third step in getting organized?
What other software programs might I need as an advocate?
Are supplies and equipment deductible?
How do I get started?

The nice thing about purchasing a training package like our advocacy course is that much of the work has already been done for you. Our distinctive approach to disability advocacy reduces the amount of time needed in the planning stage of your business. But you will need to get organized! In business, getting organized means that you must organize every aspect of your new life as a business owner. Start creating a structure and a plan of operation for each step in the process of offering your service. From the first phone call to the closing of your first case, organizing and structuring your business and personal life will help you to succeed.

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What's the hardest aspect of working from home?

I believe it to be isolation! Some people become dysfunctional when they are deprived of daily human interaction. The true difference between a home based entrepreneur and a dreamer is his/her ability to get the job done without supervision or external encouragement.

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How do I address the isolation issue?

By creating and following a daily routine. Make sure that you get up at a similar time each working day, to get dress and complete your morning business tasks. Take breaks and end the day at a reasonable hour as you would if you were working at a normal job. It's also important to get out of the house. Take walks and spread your errands out on different times of the day to allow yourself the chance to interact with others..

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What's the first step in getting myself organized?

Create a private area within your home reserved for all work and materials related to your business. Before placing any written materials in this business space, organize the furniture to fit your comfort. If needed, purchase business supplies that allow you to organize your desk and have everything neatly in place. Make sure that you have easy access to the tools of the trade like your computer and telephone.

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What's the second step in getting myself organized?

Once you have a comfortable and well organized environment in which to do business, do an equipment review. An equipment review allows you to identify those pieces of equipment that will be used in the day-to-day operation of an advocacy service. Examples: Computer, printer, flat bed scanner, fax, telephone, in-out boxes, Merck manual, Medical dictionary, your advocate software.

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What's the third step in getting organized?

After setting up your business environment, you're ready to begin your training. Lay out the materials within your training package and make sure that you have received all of the appropriate materials for your option. The program contains a (temporary) syllabus. This syllabus contains basic program instructions including a course schedule. Follow the course schedule as you proceed through the training course.

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What other software programs might I need as an advocate?

If you have purchased an Executive package, you already have all the operational software you'll need with two exceptions. We recommend that you purchase an accounting program like Quickbooks and a Web editing program like Frontpage. Both of these programs will be used frequently within your business.

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Are supplies and equipment deductible?

Generally yes! Keep in mind that you're in the start-up phase of your business. Many of the expenses associated with starting and operating your business are deductible under certain conditions. Be sure to consultant your accountant or financial adviser for details.

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