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Being your own boss seems like an idyllic life, away from the drudgery of a 9 to 5 job. Don't be fooled, going freelance, starting your own company or buying into an existing business takes dedication and hard work before you can reap the benefits. Learn about the initial stages of self-employment from developing your business idea to creating a business plan, working out start-up costs, managing cashflow and promoting your business. Find out if you've got what it takes to be an entrepreneur or freelancer.
Businesslink.gov.uk is the website of Business Link, the national business advice service. Use this site to get straightforward information for your business needs and to access a wide network of business support organisations in your area.
Shell LiveWIRE has over 20 years' experience encouraging young people to start and develop their own business.
Supplied by: Department for Business, Innovation and Skills
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