Accounting software – Great up to a point, but then let people take over
For many years some specialist contractor accountants have developed their own technology solutions to help clients provide data in a format that would enable those providers to deliver great service at a reasonable price. Some use spreadsheets whereas others created their own cloud based systems. The common objective has been to reduce the time spent […]
Your crib, cafe or coworking space – which is the right professional workspace for you?
As a freelancer or contractor you have the freedom to work exactly where you want. Your office is where you lay your laptop, so effectively any destination can be your professional workspace for the day. But how do you know which location is the right one for you? Sometimes a little trial and error […]
What makes a successful contractor or freelancer?
What makes a successful contractor or freelancer? If we were able to provide a magic formula that instantly gave you the success you always dreamt of, we’d be very rich! But sadly your success is down to your own hard work, graft, and pure determination (with a little luck thrown in). So without […]
Why client testimonials and referrals are so great and how to get more
Client testimonials and referrals We are all consumers, and at some point in our lives we’ve been wowed by super slick websites, seduced by a product’s ability to answer our needs, or simply impressed by the marketing efforts that have gone into promoting something. Yet in today’s marketplace, people still rely heavily on reviews – […]
Changes to the Flat Rate VAT Scheme
As a Limited Company contractor you will no doubt be keen to understand the changes to the Flat Rate VAT Scheme coming on 1 April 2017. Maybe you’ve heard conflicting opinions about whether you’d be better off staying in the scheme or going, and whether there’s any way to retain your existing category if you […]
Good news for contractors with children: tax-free childcare has (almost) arrived
Back in 2013 the Government announced a new tax break for working parents, providing help with paying for much needed childcare. In this blog we take a look at what the scheme entails, how you can take advantage of the scheme, and when it becomes available. What is the Tax-Free Childcare Scheme? Effectively, […]
Be your own boss this New Year, with our steps on taking the leap from humdrum permanent to self-employed success
Be your own boss in 2017 As we all settle back into our usual working routines, the Christmas break seems nothing more than a distant pleasant memory. How many of you started the year by deciding that 2017 would be the year you’d become your own boss? It’s not uncommon to be full of […]
Increase your productivity and make the most from 2017 with our top eight tips – part two
Make the most from 2017 In our last blog we reviewed the first four of eight top tips for increasing your productivity this New Year. From making the use of early morning peace and quiet to brain superfoods, we covered some fantastic ways in which you can make small changes that will have a positive […]
Increase your productivity this New Year with our top eight tips – part one
Increase your productivity in 2017 Ever find yourself wishing there were more hours in the day? Would you like more time to work on a personal project, pursue your latest hobby, or even just spend time with loved ones? Whatever it may be, we all wish there was more time for it. So if […]
The rules surrounding tax and Christmas gifts
Tax and Christmas “It’s the most wonderful time of the year” or so the song goes, when people are busy thinking about what gifts to get each other and possibly what they’ll receive in return. But what are the rules surrounding gifts to employees or clients? Can you claim back the VAT and tax? In […]