I'm thinking about working for myself

What issues do you need to consider before going ahead?

• Activity: do you have an idea for the business activity? Could you run a franchise? See the Business Link website for more information
• Funding: do you need money to set up your business?
• Legal issues: will you be a sole trader, work with partners, in a cooperative or in some form of company?
• Insurance: What insurance will you need to take out?
• Staffing: do you need to employ other people?
• Premises: can you work from home or do you need an office, workshop or factory?
• Equipment: do you need specialist equipment or just a phone, answering machine and computer?
• Transport: do you need a van or car or can you manage without transport?
• Publicity: how will you publicise your business?
• Training: do you have all the knowledge you need to run your business?
• People: is there an impact on your family in terms of time or finance? Do you want to work on your own or with other people?