My work day started like any other; sitting at my computer (with a mug of   tea) checking my emails. There in my in box was a mail from a company offering to increase my rating on the web. Not a problem as for me an email is less annoying than cold sales calls but   it was the opening line of the mail which caught my attention,   it   was   Dear Ed....oops, then there was another error regarding my qualification further down. It seemed that this company had found me via my web site so I decided to reply pointing out the effect of their errors when trying to generate new business. I soon received a phone call which started badly but by the end of it everything was amicable with me wishing them well with their business.

For me first impressions are very important; unless you are certain of the contact name use Dear Sirs or a similar term and make sure the information you are stating regarding the business you are hoping to impress is correct. Alienation at first contact is normally a client lost. Being sure of your facts   shows you've taken the time to do the minimal research which in turn shows you care.

That said the fact the gentleman took the time to call and find out why I'd felt the need to respond in such a manner shows that he wanted to get it right....learning from your mistakes can only be appaulded and if he stumbles accross this entry I really do wish him and his company success.

With technology playing a much larger part in accounting especially with the   requirement to   file returns and make   payments   using on line facilities my experiences have been varied to date. To provide clients with on line services I have registered and set up as an agent with HMRC and that was not without a few teething problems. If anyone   leaves their returns to the last minute they may come unstuck as the registration pages state to allow   7 days from registration to activation; my advice is leave longer as my experience was on average 2 - 3 weeks for each service.

I'm sure   providing services on line   intends to reduce paper and make things more streamline and efficient but when there is a problem you still need a person to speak to. For me the on line CIS verification process is a prime example: I had successfully entered a couple of subcontractors details I then had a person with a non standard NI number which the system wouldn't let me enter. I left that box empty and submitted the details for verification. When the reply came back the subcontractor with the abnormal NI came back unverified but with no information so I went back to the old system and verified over the phone and low and be hold verified no problem.

Every business in some way or another has become more reliant on technology and the latest gadgets but lets face it there is still a   need for someone either at the end of a phone or face to face with the experience and knowledge. Larger companies   use call centers where you never speak to the same person twice but the personal touch in my view can not be replaced and that what I   aim to provide to my clients. Sure there are sometimes when I can't get to my phone especially if I'm with another client as to take a call in a meeting is just bad manners so an email may be required but I'm just as happy for you to leave me a voice message and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

I hope to speak to you soon.

Whilst attending a meeting with a client recently I was referred to as their 'girl Friday' by a third party. My client was quick to respond that I was more than that. It took me a few moments to realise that I had been paid two complements.

I'm not sure if my client was   bristled on my behalf by the possible condescending meaning of the phrase but I saw it that to the third party I came across as an efficient loyal and professional person where my clients response was a pleasant reminder that I am trusted to get done what needs to be done with in the required timescales leaving others to get on with their work. Well why else would I be working for them...!

I don't want to be 'pigeon holed' as a book keeper as I love having variety in the work I do. Sure I love working with figures, I'd be in the wrong job if I didn't, but I'm more than happy typing letters, collating documents or even do some research. My friends will tell you I'm just as happy being a labourer on site for my husbands landscaping business but don't worry my mobiles always close to hand.

E

Hi. Welcome to my first ever blog. It has been been an exciting yet   manic time getting EDL Business Services to this point and even with the current climate I know that I can be of assistance to   small business and sole traders alike. Deciding to set up my own business has been a learning curve after being an 'employee' for nearly 20 years but I have enjoyed the challenges it has brought and I am here telling the world   that I am here and enthusiastic to help YOU!

I'm not the kind of person to shout from the roof tops about how brilliant I am, often selling myself short and that has been the hardest thing   for me to overcome in starting my own business. I'd never take on work I can't complete as it doesn't help my reputation or more importantly my clients business after all I am here to make your life easier. It took me a long time to decide what I wanted to do 'when I grew up' but I have found my niche. I always loved   maths and thankfully when I   landed my first office job I was working   for/with people who spotted my potential and taught me all aspects accounts. Having moved on (through situations beyond my control) I landed a similar job but   feel I have reached a point where I need   more variety   and   probably the challenges of     being my own boss. I'm proud of the letters after my name and as I have over the years I will continue to keep myself up to date ensuring that I provide my clients with the best possible service I can.

On a very realistic noted I am aware that the first year anyone starts their own business is the hardest so I am off to get on with paperwork....don't worry though the phone and computer will be near by so I can take your calls and emails!

Well this wasn't as daunting as I was imagining once I got going. So I'll be back soon

E