Managing clients, finances and time

We spoke to BGA member Carly O’Brien about clients, finances and managing time at COB’s Equine Shop and Services.

Setting up as a freelancer was an easy decision, but also one which came with a few concerns. I knew that I would have to manage my own time, do my own accounts and I was worried that I wouldn't get enough work to build my business.

For me, the move to becoming a freelancer was as secure as it could be. I was already working as a groom at the livery yard of the riding school that I still teach at, so I had a baseline income, but in order to make the finances add up I needed to get additional clients to grow my business.

Finding my clients

One of my first clients was a lovely lady who asked me to look after her dogs while she was away. She was so pleased with the service that she recommended me to her friends and family which gave me additional work.

Meanwhile, there were a couple of adverts on social media asking for holiday cover which I offered my services too. These clients I still have and regularly book my services when they go on holiday.

These have rolled out to other clients which have come from recommendation and word of mouth and that it how I built the core of my business. I do have a Facebook Page as I think it is important for perspective clients to come and be able to have a look at what I offer and familiarise themselves with me.

I feel I have been super lucky to have great customers but there has been a time when there has been a miscommunication between a client and myself. It was a tricky situation but after having a good conversation we managed to resolve the issue and still have a great working relationship – more proof that communication is key.

Managing time off

Managing my time off is something that historically I have found a challenge. When I started freelancing, I said yes to every job as I was worried that I wouldn’t be earning enough money or that I would run out of work.

Over time and after building great relationships I now have lovely regular clients. I do still have trouble saying no and then not having a day off. I’m working at that but generally I aim to have two days off a week - if I’m lucky!

Managing finances

I try to plan my finances around my regular customer’s payments. Then I know exactly what’s coming in when and then I can plan that with what I know is going out again. I also put some aside for a raining day or for when something unexpected comes along i.e. car breakdown, so that I am not left stuck. I also put some aside each month for my tax return and National Insurance as it can be easy to forget you still need to pay this.

Insurance

Through the BGA insurance options, I have the freelancers public liability policy and the personal accident insurance as well. You never know when things are going to happen that weren’t planned, but the insurance policies give me the reassurance to know that I am covered if anything was to go wrong.

I love being a freelancer and I'm proud of my business. The BGA has a huge amount of information about setting up and managing your business which is really useful in the Freelancers Toolkit.

Carly x

If you would like to join the British Grooms Association, like Carly, have a look at what we can offer you. 

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