Thinking of Starting a Business? From Side Hustles to Shops. Here’s what local experts have to say…

Have you ever thought, “I could do this for myself” while sitting at your desk or finishing a freelance job?

If so, you’re not alone. More and more people in the Leighton Buzzard area are starting side hustles, going self-employed, or turning passion projects into a full-time business.

Whether it’s baking brownies, construction work, launching a consultancy, or selling beautiful jewellery, there’s something exciting, and a bit terrifying, about the idea of starting your own business. The good news?…

You’re in the right place to do it.
We spoke to local accountancy experts BAS Associates, who have helped hundreds of local people go from “maybe I could…” to “look what I built!”

Here are their top five pieces of advice for anyone thinking about starting a business:

1. Start simple & start smart

You don’t need a huge budget or a five-year plan to get going but you do need to be clear on what you’re offering, who it’s for, and how you’ll make money from it.

“We always say, keep it simple from the start” says Sian from BAS. “You can build as you go, but you need a basic structure and business fundamentals in place to make sure you’re not building on quicksand.”

2. Know what you have to do

It’s tempting to focus on logos, websites and of course, everyone saying “You need to be on social media”, but there are some practical must-dos too. Registering with HMRC, setting up a business bank account, understanding what you can claim as expenses, understanding your cashflow… it’s not glamorous, but it saves a lot of stress later. BAS offer low-cost startup consultations to walk you through all of it.

3. Track everything

Even if you’re only earning £100 a month, track it.

“The earlier you build good habits, the easier it is to grow,” says Sian. “Whether it’s an app or a spreadsheet, keep records of what you earn and spend.”

4. Ask for advice (before it’s a problem)

One of the best things about being a local business is that other local businesses want you to succeed. BAS say many people come to them after making mistakes that could’ve been avoided with a quick chat.

“We’d rather have a 20-minute conversation now than a panicked one in January,” Sian laughs.

5. Celebrate the wins

Starting something new is brave, and at times is going to be difficult. So, if you’ve sold your first product, got your first client, or registered your business name celebrate it. The small wins accumulate and celebrating them will help keep you motivated. Remember, you’re doing the thing most people only talk about…being your own boss! Enjoy it and recognise your progress.

Want to chat with someone who has helped hundreds of locals do it?

BAS Associates offer free, no-pressure chats for anyone starting out (or anyone already running their own business). So, whether you’re fully ready, just testing the waters or feeling like you might be a little submerged… BAS Associates are based locally, have a team of in-house accountants (plus business coaches!) and speak human, not just numbers and jargon!

Feel like you want to kick-start your business with a bit of expert support behind you?
Who knows where your idea could take you but taking that journey with a team like BAS might be one of the best choices you can make. Get in touch today on 01296 681341. BAS Associates