Start a Secretarial Business

If you're looking to start a secretarial business, there are a number of services you can offer: transcription, dictation, spreadsheet and database creation/maintenance, bookkeeping, filing, manuscripts, resumes, document formatting and more. As an added service, you can go out to your clients to pick up and drop off documents, organize their offices and more..

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Skills for a Secretarial Business

To run a secretarial business, you need firm grip on basic office skills and understanding of the common computer programs that your clients are likely to be using.

Because you're working independently, you'll need to ensure that you have good motivation, organization and communication skills. You'll be managing multiple clients, so in addition to keeping yourself organized, you'll need to keep them organized too!

Equipment Needed

The equipment you'll need will vary, depending on the services you offer, but the basics of:

• Computer
• Fax
• Phone
• Appropriate Software

...are a must to start with.

Getting Started

Take a look at other local secretarial services and see what they are offering and the rates they charge. How can you distinguish yourself to make your services attractive and still get paid well?

Start by connecting with other local business owners. A good network is an excellent way to start drumming up referrals. Ensure you have business cards, a service list and a website that serves as your virtual office-front.

Remember, a service-based business is labor-intensive. You are essentially getting paid for the time you work with your clients and then you have a business to manage on top of that. Ensure the pay is worthwhile and consider using subcontractors so you can spend more time building up your clientele.