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Advice for young person on self-employment

(29 Posts)
Skydancer Fri 15-Mar-24 16:38:12

My GS, in his first year of A levels, does not want to go to university. He would like to start a business, ideally online. He has the technical ability but lacks an idea. He is quite determined but needs advice and guidance. I realise few self-employed people would be willing to divulge their business secrets but I imagine there must be mentors for young people. There seems to be advice for those who have already started running a business or who already have an idea but nothing for those who are just thinking about it. I have advised him to pick the brains of people who have started up on their own. Can anyone point us in the right direction?

Skydancer Sat 16-Mar-24 12:13:30

Some excellent advice here which we will take on board. I'm very glad I started this thread as all replies have been most helpful. Thank you all so much. I do agree that my GS initially needs to work for somebody else in some sort of business to see how it all works. I did know about the Princes Trust and have told him about it. And the idea about learning about accounts is excellent. I agree that he is, at this stage, a bit unrealistic but I want to encourage him as he is adamant this is the route he wants to go down. I have also said to him that he could go to university later on if he changed his mind. I will start another thread in the (hopefully) not-too-distant future to let you all know how he gets on. (Biglouis I love the sound of your passion for antiques - that's an area I know a little bit about and agree it's fascinating - something I'd love to do if I had time and energy - sadly lacking these days). My GS's main passion is sport, both as a participant and spectator. He is also very interested in cars.

pascal30 Sat 16-Mar-24 12:18:59

Callistemon21

OldFrill

The Princes Trust helps young business people
www.princes-trust.org.uk/how-we-can-help/support-starting-business

Oh sorry, I see you posted that already OldFrill

Well worth repeating though.

I third the idea of The Princes Trust.. Also at the Job Centre in Brighton they are offering courses for people to set up their own businesses with all sorts of help.. It might be worth approaching your local one..

sara94 Sun 25-Aug-24 15:56:46

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