Shy Bairns Get Nowt

Shy Bairns Get Nowt

Shy Bairns Get Nowt


We are in a recession and yet many people are too proud to admit their businesses are not making them millions. There’s a sense of fake it ‘til you make it where everyone has a shiny car, a wide smile and tales of being “super busy”…yet businesses are closing daily.

Positivity is a great skill and no one wants to talk to a miserable git but if you don’t tell people what your business needs rarely are they mystic meg. Don’t be afraid to say which connections you are looking for, what you would like to source from a cheaper supplier or if you are looking for collaboration on a project too “big” for yourself. It is possible to ask for help without looking weak and most people will respond better to you if you are honest.

The same applies for the government there is no benefit to being too proud to see if there is financial help available for you. Many people are too proud to ask for help or too scared of paperwork mountains to see if they could be better off financially. If half an hour filling out paperwork gives you a years worth of small weekly payments it is half an hour well spent.

If self-employed and a low earner you “may” be entitled to Working Tax credit, Child Tax Credit, Housing allowances and help with childcare. The direct gov website isn’t the most user friendly but does have calculators you can use to estimate what you might be entitled to. The Working Tax helpline is 0845 3003900 and expect to wait for 10-15 mins.

On the 4Networking site there are many reputable financial advisors, book keepers and accountants who are far more expert in these matters than I am, it would be great to have an “expert” comment, join the discussion or offer ten min consultations to members?

In my mind accepting a bit of help to make your business a success is better than proudly failing.