In January 2013, I launched Virtual Finesse, a professional business management & virtual office support venture which I could run from home. It was ideal. After over 15 years commuting into Liverpool, a round trip of 25 miles and often three hours added onto my day overall with travelling, I didn't need to worry about leaving the house let alone put my make up on.
Having a toddler with a full time childminder and a "soon to be grown up" child in primary school, both close to home, this meant that I would be on-hand in case of emergencies, save on after school childcare etc. This helped alot as my husband, a wagon driver was often away during the week and therefore childcare was down to me.
However, work wasn't coming in consistently. This made it easy to take the day off to do the cleaning or pop up to my mothers for a coffee before getting settled for what would then be half a days work.
Suddenly I realised something had to change, this wasn't as easy as I thought. Money was dwindling after setting my box room into a plush office suite and getting the latest hi-tech equipment.
I came across some office accommodation in a business park and went to view it. I got butterfly's in my tummy. Fancy working alongside other people!!! I realised I missed that. That same day I was offered other accommodation and being the type of person who thinks things happen for a reason, I signed up to a six month lease. I had never negotiated a contract before and felt confident (and a little cheeky) doing so. This now meant I had to find the monthly rent and also get out of the house with glad rags and face paint on by 8.30am.
At the same time I attended a workshop on the use of "twitter" and soon became addicted, yippee I could converse with people and make new friends. I also attended my first networking event, I got dressed up in my power suit and spoke to total strangers, which I loved. It was then that I realised that maybe some people are interested in me and what I do and I could mold this business around this.
Well, I formally moved into my office today and at the latter part of last week I was successful in achieving two further clients, one of which I actually contacted by telephone rather than following up by email and one that contacted me and I met for a coffee. I don't know if this is just pure coincidence or if it is the new view I have on what has been a hobby for the passed few months.
One particular lesson I have learned from some lovely people I have met during this short journey so far is people don't care about what you're selling, they care about the connection with you. I have to say wasn't even touched upon in my Business & Organisational Management Degree.
I think that's why things have started to fall into place, because I can now be me, a smiley bubbly wife and mother of two, owner of Virtual Finesse who is also into shoes, vintage clothing and meeting new people.
On reflection, homeworking did suit me at that particular time in my life but now thankfully, that time is passed and I'm sure I will share that with you someday.
