I’m not sure exactly when I decided I didn’t want a boss. But once it was in my head, there was no shaking it.
By taking control of my life, I’d have a job I was passionate about and I wouldn’t have to answer to a boss every time my child was ill or I fancied the afternoon off last minute. I’d be able to do the sort of work I loved and create a business tailored perfectly to me.
This vision was inconceivable to most people I shared it with and some were even amused by it. But I was determined it was possible.
Whizzing forward 14 years, I’ve proved that it’s totally possible (and by the way, if I knew then what I know now, it would have taken a fraction of that time).
Now I’m on a mission to help you achieve a lifestyle that you love. One that puts a spring in your step every morning. Imagine bringing a smile to people’s faces when you work with them? It doesn’t get any better than that.
Let’s get on and design your new lifestyle then, shall we…
First, what types of work do you absolutely love doing?
Get writing them down and you’ll begin to create a list of the services you can offer as a Companionship Business owner. What makes you happy… organising… decluttering… walking or teaching tech? You might be popping in for a chat and a cup of tea, helping with a tricky letter, taking your client for their weekly shop or helping them indulge in their favourite hobby but it’s great if you can align your interests with your clients.
Next – important – what sort of clients would you not want to work with?
Start making a list of the types of clients that you wouldn’t want to take on. It’s really important to have a clear idea of who you want to help – so anyone who needs personal care for example wouldn’t be a good fit as they would need a care agency… or the type of client who doesn’t really want to pay for help is another… along with those who really only want a cleaner.
What type of people are a great fit for you?
You know the ones – you get real joy in bringing some brightness into their day and spending time with them. They look forward to your visit each week and you get just as much back – so perhaps those whose family are living away and you’re their only visit all week or those who you know only need a little extra support to allow them to stay in their own home, something that means the world to them. This will become your potential client list.
What days would you like to have off?
It may be just weekends or you may decide you only want to work a 3 day week. You may want Wednesday afternoons off. It’s your own business so you can do what you like. What type of week is the most appealing to you?
What about an hourly rate?
Again, purely your decision. Clearly you have to be realistic, but as a guide companionship services charge around £17.50 per hour.
What are your priorities outside of work?
Think about how you can fit them into your working day. For example, I won’t miss Pilates on a Friday for love nor money! And try to get a meeting in with me on a Thursday morning, you’ve no chance. Thursday morning is pottering time, Friday is Pilates and reading. And my weekends are precious family time. How about you?
What boundaries would you like to set?
How big an area would you like to cover with your visits? What hours of the day would you like to work? What would you like your payment terms to be? All these things – and more – are totally up to you. Remember you call the shots.
How does it feel to build that vision?
If you’d like to make it a reality, why not check out my FAB-Senior Programme here.
Sarah x
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