Being creative doesn't stop you being businesslike

Over the last twenty five years I've been associated with several small businesses, some of them my own.  I can confidently state that if there's a business mistake to make, I've probably made it.

That's why I know if you're a writer of any kind and intend to make money from your writing, you need to adopt some businesslike attitudes.  It might scare you, especially if you think of the tax implications but that's all the more reason to face up to certain facts about being in business.

1. A little structure underpinning your business from Day 1, will save you headaches in the long term.
2. Not all accountants are rogues and can also save you pain if you use them with care.
3. Assuming you will attract clients and behaving as if you know what you are doing pays off.

This is particularly so with regard to terms and conditions of trading.  Doing work for clients is one thing.  Getting paid for it is another.

One of my jobs in a company that employed me was to chase up invoices for goods.  Getting paid was ten times worse if the paperwork wasn't in order.  It gave them the chance to nitpick.

If you're in the East Midlands there's an event that might help you start off on the right foot. The University of Nottingham's Ingenuity Programme holds Breakfast events on a variety of topics. The meeting on 12th March includes a talk by Margaret Burrell, and expert in Terms and Conditions. 

http://www.ingenuitygateway.com/