Forum

• # 81639
• Fri 06 Apr 2012 06:35 PM

Hi There

I have recently qualified to Associate stage and am taking my level 3 at the end of month.

I am basically looking for advise as to wether I should set up on my own. By reading through the posts it looks like most people are struggling with securing new Business.

I have tried recruitment agencies but for some reason not a lot favour ICB exams and seem to want ACCA or CIMA.

I am debating the Practise license but worried about annual cost if no clients.

Also do the ICB offer any support in this area even if it is to shadow another bookkeeper and how or where to advertise.

Worried about posting as not sure if others would be upset by another Bookkeeper trying to set up in their area.

Is there an area on the forum where you can go to research the pros and cons

Any suggestions would be welcome

• Dev Bains
  
  http//www.booktek.co.uk/
  
  
  

• 
  Quote
  

• # 81640
• Fri 06 Apr 2012 07:19 PM

Hi Dev,

Well done on achieving associate level ad good luck with level 3.

I wouldn't let the fact that a few bookkeepers are having difficulties finding clients put you off.  There are similar problems with businesses of many tyoes right now, but there are just as many doing really well.

We all offer pretty similar services, but thats really where the similarity for many ends.  We tend to use different marketing mixes with different levels of sucess.

I've had some difficult times over the past few years, but I wouldn't change being self employed for anything.

If it's something you want, you'll make it happen.

Kris 

• Kris McCulloch
  www.ayrshireaccountancy.co.uk
  
  Winner - BKN Most Innovative Accountancy Firm 2012
  
  Latest Blog Post: Bookkeepers Award 2015

• 
  Quote
  

• # 81641
• Fri 06 Apr 2012 11:31 PM

Get along to a local branch meeting - there should be one within range. You will find members at all stages and there may be opportunities for shadowing, work experience or even paid work as an associate to a practice, as well as the learning experience from presentations and speakers.

ken Bell
Head of Regions. 

• 
  Quote