Comments on: Biz Ladies 09: HR for the Self-Employed: Perk Up!

By: Andrea >> Become a Consultant

Andrea >> Become a Consultant — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 17:25:08 +0000

It’s refreshing to see a post — and series — like this. So often, women who start businesses depend on the benefits provided by the jobs their partners hold. I know I’m one of those women. It would be fantastic to have benefits so that things like eye glasses and extra dental care aren’t so darn expensive. And working toward providing these benefits means building a business more so than a job.

By: Ann Cole

Ann Cole — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 14:45:58 +0000

As someone who is in the beginning stages of going out on my own—I wanted to let you know how grateful I am for this business series. It gives me hope that I can make things work! Thank you.

By: Paperfinger

Paperfinger — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 17:02:11 +0000

Thank you for this article. I am really intruiged by the idea of creating a vacation plan for myself (being self-employed) because I can see how there is a perk in theory that I can take time off whenever I want…but will I? Oftentimes not. Great idea to value your balance and well-being right from the start. Thanks again!

By: Lauren

Lauren — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:18:50 +0000

Sophie: Amen, sister — I’m in Canada and am incredibly grateful for our universal healthcare system.

Becky: A lot depends on where you are, as many programs are region-specific. If you’re in the US, you might start by checking out the Women’s Business Centers (http://www.sba.gov/services/counseling/wbc/) and SCORE (http://www.score.org).

By: Sophie S

Sophie S — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 12:43:05 +0000

This is really sensible advice, all of it. I’ve just gone back to self employment after having been sucked into working for someone else for a year for a lot of these reasons – the lure of a job that stopped at 6 o’ clock and not having to worry about my paycheck and pension contributions. But I hated it.

This time I’m taking more time off at weekends to spend with my husband and keeping a cap on my hours but charging more for them. It’s amazing how no one seems phased by a higher hourly rate after all.

Thank heavens I’m in the UK though and get healthcare free at the point of need – it’s a brilliant and reassuring safety net and makes the cost of self employment so much lower. Thank you, post WW2 politicians. Think about it, US politicians, when you have clawed some money back from banking. How much free healthcare could be provided by the amount of money given to bail out banks?

By: Becky Chabot

Becky Chabot — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 10:57:37 +0000

I’m currently in a divorce situation, but when it’s final, I really NEED to do something and know that I will need a business plan and start up capital. Do you know any legitimate organizations or gov. resources that will offer low interest loans or grants to women starting over?
Thanks! So far I am loving this thread series, thank you for your information.

By: Amanda

Amanda — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 03:58:41 +0000

Great post, wonderful insight, unique perspective. Loving it. One thing I would like to add is that there is a coooool company that does all of this for you. I don’t yet make enough money to join, but if you want to look into it: http://www.solow2.com