The benefits of flexible working for solopreneurs

The way we work is changing dramatically with the dawn of each day. With the country in lockdown, the coronavirus crisis has meant that we are all adapting to new working styles.

Unprecedented and challenging times have seen the majority of office workers setting themselves up to work at home, many with just a few days’ notice.

The smart businesses will already have put their remote working  practices in place to support flexible working. Now that we have proved that business can continue largely unaffected and actually operate effectively, remote flexible working will be high on everyone’s agenda once restrictions begin to be lifted.

Get the balance right

The businesses with the real upper hand in this will be those run by solopreneurs. These micro businesses are already well placed to take advantage of flexible working styles and will be set to reap further benefits. Most sole traders will say that running a business on your own allows you to be adaptable. Flexible working equals flexible schedule so you can plan your working day around your commitments, be they school runs, client meetings or yoga classes. The job satisfaction comes from this improved work/life balance which gives a boost to your morale and keeps you motivated.

Cut your overheads

Working on your own means that you won’t have to think about renting expensive offices or equipment for your employees. You will be free to work independently at home if you wish or take a desk in a serviced office or coworking space if you prefer to have the routine of going to the office. This means no expensive overheads like rates and utility bills so you can save money, keep track of your outgoings and ultimately be more competitively priced for your clients. It will also enable you to think towards the future and put any saved funds into growing your business.

Save valuable time

Being a flexible worker means that you can decide where and when you work. Why would you spend valuable time commuting into the city on crowded trains if you have a well equipped workstation at home or space in a local serviced office? When looking for a coworking space, remember to check out the facilities that are on offer. You will want it to impress any clients you invite there for meetings, so you will need one with excellent services and connections. Look out for high speed WiFi, modern decor and furnishings, a well equipped meeting room and tea and coffee supplies. You’ll also have the benefit of a ready made networking group with the other small businesses there so you will have the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals too.

Embrace technology

With video conferencing replacing meeting room huddles and the ability to work in the Cloud anywhere, advances in technology have changed the way we work. Solopreneurs can use technology to their advantage to support their flexible working style. Connectability is everywhere – so no matter where you’re working or what device you’re working on, you will be able to stay in touch with your clients and stay up to date with developments.