Small Business: The Home Business Report roundtable
Here are some of the highlights and insights from a panel discussion on the results of the UK’s biggest Home Business survey, ran by Enterprise Nation and sponsored by Direct Line for Business.
2.9 million home-based businesses in the UK
People are starting a business out of choice and earning just as much as those who aren't self-employed. Here are some tips for working from home.
64% of home-based business owners are women
Sarah Clements, the founder of ACES marketing, said it was definitely a factor in her decision to start her business from home. It gave her the flexibility of being able to work full time whilst still allowing her to do the school drop off and pick up. Before her childcare fees were more than her mortgage payment each month.
Home-based businesses on track to create 5 million freelance jobs
Jazz Gakhal, a Managing Director at Direct Line Group, said she's witnessed changing trends over the last few years. Products such as public liability insurance used to be marketed to mostly tradespeople. But now with more freelancers and consultants starting up their own business and requiring public liability cover, the product is now also promoted to those professionals.
85% expect to see growth but would like greater access to mentors
Most of the survey respondents want a mentor for guidance as well as access to better and more professional business advice. There is a tremendous amount of helpful resources out there, so it’s worth finding the time to navigate through it and to find the right guidance for your business. Where do you start? Well, our Knowledge Centre has a wealth of information for start-ups, while Enterprise Nation is also a fantastic resource.