Into the Light
When the morning dawn breaks and the small business owner heads out into the light of the day, they do not have to go it alone. Even Solopreneurs can find assistance that may not break the bank.
One of the most common concerns I hear among Solopreneurs is the need for administrative support. This is especially troublesome for solo professionals. They are paid to provide their professional services, period. That means any time spent not working on providing those professional services is unbillable time. Yet, much of the work of a business owner can be filed under that title - unbillable services. So, what, if any, options exist?
The dog swimming company I co-owned a decade ago had great success with the local college and its Animal Behavior Department Interns. They were given course credit and were not required to be paid as the class credit was the ultimate goal. They had to be present for a certain number of hours a week, be in a learning capacity and our business had to be approved by the Chair of the Internship Program. Many of the interns went on to become training contractors for us. It was a win/win on both sides. If your field allows this, please contact your local colleges or universities.
What if your chosen field of work does not permit unpaid interns? Well, you can choose to pay them but that brings all the employee administration required. If your organization cannot afford an employee infrastructure,, consider researching firms which provide the type of support you require. Normally, this is on a contractual basis and you pay the ‘contracted firm’ monthly based on an hourly rate for their services. The firm bears the infrastructure cost, you pay them like you pay your landlord, monthly for services rendered.
One national company that provides operational support, financial optimization, and many other personal assistant duties is one run by Military Spouses. We have not personally used it but do know at least one solo professional using it. Do a Google Search and it is called Squared Away. As our IWON Women’s Group grows, we are hopeful to try them for research and administrative assistance. And most impressive, it was founded by a woman, still their CEO. You will still need to find payment within your fees to cover their cost, but at least it is not a full cost of actually having employees.
As you navigate through balancing workload and the services you can bill for and those you cannot, also consider sharing the cost of an administrative services firm or leasing an employee. Many staffing firms, which are locally owned, provide the opportunity to lease staff. The administrative burden of managing an employee base is borne by that staffing firm. Much like the administrative firm listed above,. you will pay a contracted amount to the company. This model was used by several larger firms I worked with at my previous corporate job. It seemed to suit them well. And they have the added benefit of being local and providing an in person worker, not just a virtual one.
So, let the light of a new dawn be an inspiration to you. Do not let it bring the continual burden of seeking help to manage your business. There are options, always.
Do your research, interview firms that can help you on a contractual basis, and be like our Blog Dog of the Day, catch that ball you have been juggling. Contract with a personal assistant firm, a staffing firm, or, if applicable, help guide a college intern in your chosen field. There is almost always light at the end of dark tunnels.
Be well.
