Business startup book

jat100

A relative is thinking of setting up his own business. He is a graphic designer and intends freelancing providing services to advertising agencies as well as direct to companies requiring advertising. (At least, that's how I understand it!)

I would like to buy him a book for Christmas which has useful information about setting up a business. For example, information about how to deal with tax, hiring staff.....that sort of thing. A book with tips and things you would need to know. Not a book that is too heavy going (as he probably wouldn't read it! )

As there are several people on here who have their own business, I was wondering if any of you could make any recommendations.

Many thanks for any help provided.

jellyang

I really can't think of any book that will cover these issues. Probably best to have a browse in your local book store or Amazon.
The problem is that tax/employment/business laws change so frequently that by the time it had got to print it would be out of date.

Sorry that was not much help!

Pink.

Hi jat100,

I have moved your thread over to the Small Business board to see if you can get some replies there.

Pink

GingeG

Tell Him to get to a "Business Gateway"

They are beter than any book and free. Its run by the Government and he will be given an advisor to help him with the whole sheebang.

GingeG

See my previous post.

Tell him to go to his local Business Gateway.

They really are fantastic help, better than any book.

If you really want a book then any of the "Lawpack" series are great about £10 in Staples they even have a "Small Business for Dummies" book out now too.

tru

I've got this, it set me off in the right direction

Kilty_2

HMRC provide a good guide when you actually register as self employed, if you tick the relevant box on the form. It might be possible to request this via their website....

jat100

Thanks everyone, especially tru and GingeG! All very useful information but tru's and GingeG's messages help me a lot with my Christmas present buying! I may even buy myself one of those books!

millie2_2

If it's not too late:

Good Small Business Guide ISBN 0747566909

For inspiration try:
The Beermat Entrepreneur ISBN 0273659294
Go It Alone ISBN 1841124702

I've got a lot out of all of these. Cheers

rharper83

Mike Southon who wrote 'The Beermat Entrepreneur' as mentioned by millie2 is a very influential speaker. He did a talk at Birmingham University about 9 months ago, and he gave a lot of excellent advice. I would heartily recommend his book as it's helped me a lot!

Kingo4581

The Entrepreneur's Book of Checklists: 1000 Tips to Help You Start and Grow Your Business is a good, lighthearted book with lots of real life examples in. It's worth looking at