Meet Linda Owen, of LMO Bookkeeping. Linda, what made you start your own business?
The break from employment into the self-employed life happened when I wanted more flexibility than the employed job I had could offer. I had dreams and aspirations that couldn’t be fulfilled in the position where I was working. The ongoing variety and challenges of working with all different kinds of businesses putting together their financial jigsaw pieces was just too attractive to ignore so I launched LMO Bookkeeping and I absolutely LOVE IT!!!
What do you enjoy the most about being an entrepreneur?
Being self-employed gives me joy most when I’m able to bounce ideas around the different clients I work with. I love being the financial go-to for advice or a bit of training within different management teams. Being able to draw experience from the directors and driven sole-traders gives my brain the work-out it craves, and makes me a better person by increasing my empathy and understanding of others in the world – an unexpected but brilliant bonus of working with different industries.
Who or what helps you to stay organised?
I would be lost without my page-a-day diary! I introduced it last year and it’s been a game changer. I know digital versions are out there and when I have to organise a team a bit more I will invest but for me the paper version and writing tasks down to tick off works wonders.
Obviously coaching quarterly with Helen works to focus my goals and intentions.
I also rely heavily on organising my inbox. If my emails are in a mess I feel a little panicky and like I don’t know where I’m up to.
Rank these 5 business activities in the order that you find them the most enjoyable:
1.Finances
2.Business planning
3.Putting plans into action
4.Admin
5.Marketing
What do you enjoy most about being a member of The OEC?
The OEC facebook group gives supportive information. More than that though I love the positive connections I make in meetings. I’ve actually restructured my week to give me more flexibility to attend more in-person events.
How has being a member of The OEC helped with your confidence in business?
Before being part of The OEC I felt like I was just winging it a bit and had a general idea of where I was headed. Since joining and meeting more like-minded business people I am generally more focussed but realise everyone is winging it a little. It has made me feel more comfortable with not having every bit of minutia planned out.
What is your top tip for maintaining a healthy business mindset?
I tell myself that slow and steady manageable growth is better than racing through and letting people down by taking too much on and underdelivering.
How do you help your clients?
I help take their financial admin off their hands. I encourage the use of software and reporting to become confident with their numbers so they can make informed financial decisions. I love taking on big messy projects and giving clients a tidy Profit & Loss/Balance sheet to hand to their accountants with confidence.
What have been your biggest business wins over the last 12 months?
The last 12 months I have appeared on a podcast for Accountex with Jo Wood – she’s quite an idol of mine! I have taken on two subcontractors to help with processing whilst maintaining excellent client relationships.
Who are you looking to work with and how can people get in touch?
LMO Bookkeeping enjoys most working with self-employed or single director limited companies who are struggling with their financial admin and are looking for ways to improve their financial systems. I am also looking to branch out into landlords who earn enough to submit a self-assessment. I work mostly remotely but can do in-house meetings regularly for reporting.
I am active on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or any direct emails can be sent through my website.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
I am in love with paddle boarding. I’ve got shocking balance but I love gliding over water and sometimes falling into it.