im going self imployed

[Prodigal Son]

Don't scrimp on your 'image'

What I mean is, if you are going self employed and want to be professional about it, you have to project a professional image.

Create a brand for yourself and use it on everything you do. Business cards (Vista Print - v. cheap) letterheads (same) and magnetic signs for vehicles (they can be taken off when you are local and the undesireables are about).

Get good quality stationery printed, don't just bodge something together in word etc.

Get your name in as many places as possible, post office notice board, newsagents, parish noticeboards etc.

STAY AWAY from newspaper adverts, the return is just not worth it, nor are the card promotion stations in supermarkets or DIY stores.

Really good luck with this and keep a good database of customers and enquiries. Don't let your paperwork slip!!

Some really good advice on here!

 

[Peter_t]

Thanks again, good advice.

I registered yesterday so there’s no turning back now

Mikey P - i know what you mean about my grammar, it isn’t the best but i do tend to get lazy when on the internet

i would try to stay with my old boss but I wasn’t technically employed, more like work experience which has kept going after college. He doesn’t want to because he only works part time now so it wouldn’t be worth the trouble. also i would only be able to do the two days a week I’m doing atm. i am sticking with him as a freelance worker so i will still be gaining experience.

I have had interest from another small company who mite need an extra hand now and again

also i did my first job today my driving instructor needed some work done on his garden which was getting a bit overgrown and he paid me with 3 lessons (about £80)

pete

 

[listenclear]

Sounds like you've got a great deal in your favour mate.
Your age, yes, but more so your attitude - which leads me to my 2p worth...
Whenever you have dealings with people be very nice and be enthusiastic. If you are excited about your work people will want to hire you. You come across as a really sound guy - even via the internet - this will be one of your best assets.
As people have already said, word of mouth is by far the best advertsing but it takes a while... longer than you think sometimes, but it's free and it works.
Spending money on newspaper ads etc is a massive waste of money.
Bartering is the way forward as you've already found out with your driving instructor but it's also useful networking - he might have a conversation with someone about you etc etc.
I'm not a tree surgeon but i am a self employed acupuncturist and what I've written above has helped me build up a steady business which will hopefully keep growing.
All the best of luck with everything, it's a slog sometimes but it will be worth it and you have nothing to loose.
Cheers