This one-day workshop provides a step-by-step introduction to the field of independent consultancy for people with extensive scientific, technical or management background who have worked in the industry, public sector or academia before and now wish to work for themselves. The structured and comprehensive programme is interactive and also provides a range of examples, handy templates and information sheets to help the participants to get their business up and running quickly.
This course is approved by the Royal Society of Chemistry for Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
Key subjects that will be covered include:
Planning Stage
Setting up the Business
Operating and Maintaining the Business
Post-training Support
Participants also qualify for up to 3 hours of free consultancy and support toward getting their business started within 6 months of completing the programme.
Registration and Fees
Registration is open and fees include the course manual, lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
£405 + VAT for RSC members
£450 + VAT for non-RSC members
Accommodation
A list of suitable accommodation for overnight stay in Cambridge will be provided on request.
This course is approved by the Royal Society of Chemistry for Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
Key subjects that will be covered include:
Planning Stage
- Gaining insight into pros and cons of working independently
- Constructing a vision of the business, conducting market research and developing a business plan;
- Understanding consultancy compensation models, contracts and fees
- Avoiding costly mistakes before setting up the business
Setting up the Business
- Options for setting up the business, key features and benefits of operating as a sole trader, limited company or partnership
- Selecting a good business name and internet domain name registration
- Building and maintaining business reputation
- Company registration with Companies House and Director’s legal responsibilities
- Bookkeeping, accountancy needs and basic concepts
- Accountancy software and whether to use external accountants
- Setting up a website, business email, phone lines and IT needs
- Work environment; home office or external facility
- Banking and finances
- Taxation and VAT registration
- Professional indemnity insurance (PII)
Operating and Maintaining the Business
- Marketing the business and finding work
- Time allocation and management
- Day-to-day administration of the business, procedures, protocols and forms
- Consultants’ business ethics
- Client satisfaction and maintaining trust
- Continuous professional development (CPD)
- Networking and support for consultants
Post-training Support
Participants also qualify for up to 3 hours of free consultancy and support toward getting their business started within 6 months of completing the programme.
Registration and Fees
Registration is open and fees include the course manual, lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
£405 + VAT for RSC members
£450 + VAT for non-RSC members
Accommodation
A list of suitable accommodation for overnight stay in Cambridge will be provided on request.
