
From Employee to Entrepreneur: How to Create a ‘You’ Shaped Life
A business on your own terms ✅
Working with clients that align with your values ✅
Managing your schedule, allowing you to make time for the things you love ✅
Transitioning from employee to entrepreneur is certainly an attractive proposition – but before you take the leap, make sure you master your mindset.
Once you’ve dealt with all the practical elements in setting up your own business, you’ll quickly realise that it’s more than a change in job title – it’s a whole new way of thinking.
As a fractional FD, you’re no longer just balancing the books; you’re running your very own business. The buck stops with you, and so very often you can underestimate the shift in thinking that requires.
Here are some of the common mindset hurdles you’ll have to navigate –
Think Like a Business Owner, Not an Employee
Until now, your focus has been on delivering what’s expected within the boundaries of your role. As a fractional FD, you are the business. You’ll need to think about:
- Your value proposition. What unique expertise do you bring to clients?
- Marketing. Building a brand and sending out the right message to attract the kind of clients you want to work with.
- Managing your time. Alongside delivering results for clients, you’ll need to make time for relationship building and client acquisition.
Action: Draft a plan that includes your target market, services, and a simple marketing strategy.
Get Comfortable Selling Yourself
Selling yourself – cringe! It might not be a skill in your toolbox, but newsflash it’s critical to making your new portfolio business a success. The good news is it’s a skill that can be learnt (and one you’ll definitely start to feel less cringe about!) Remember – you’re not trying to sell anything that people don’t want, you’re selling the expertise that businesses need.
- Build relationships. Networking is your best friend. Attend industry events, join online communities, and stay active on LinkedIn.
- Develop a strong pitch. Articulate the value you bring in a clear, compelling way.
Action: Create an elevator pitch and practice it until it becomes comfortable and natural. Nurture your network, never underestimate the power of your existing circle.
Take Control Of Your Time and Master Your Energy
When you’re starting out it will be tempting to say “yes” to everything. But without some healthy boundaries and time management strategies you’re on the fast track to burnout. Decide your boundaries (and stick to them religiously!) and structure your time.
- Timeblock. Dedicate specific days or blocks of time to client work, and don’t forget to allow time for marketing and admin tasks.
- Make time for self-care. You can’t deliver your best work if you’re not looking after yourself. Recognise what you need and make time for it – non-negotiable.
Action: Use tools like Trello, Notion or Asana to keep track of tasks and deadlines. Diarise time out for the things you know fill your cup and keep you energised.
Upskill for Success
It’s clear that the role of a fractional FD is very different from an in-house FD, and it brings with it a whole new skill set. You’ll need to learn –
- The legalities and practical steps to set up your business safely (allowing you to sleep soundly in your bed at night!)
- How to create a personal brand and show up authentically to attract your ideal clients.
- Develop a growth mindset, stay resilient and transition from exhausted employee to energised entrepreneur.
- Use LinkedIn to market your new business and get the leads flowing in!
- Become a networking pro. Learn how to connect authentically and never miss an opportunity.
- Sell with confidence – craft your brand story and create content that speaks to your ideal clients.
- Use tech for efficiency. Make technology work for you with a streamlined business for both you and your clients.
Action: You don’t have to do it alone! Join our PowerUP! Your Portfolio programme to master the mindset, tools, and knowledge you need scale up your own portfolio with confidence.
Transitioning from employee to fractional FD isn’t just a career move; it’s a lifestyle change. By shifting your mindset and investing in your growth, you can build a fulfilling and thriving business.
CONTACT DETAILS
Wainwright Consulting Limited
Company Number: 12778152
Registered Office:
26 Wynmore Avenue
Leeds
LS16 9DE
Phone: 07802 445680
Email: info@wainwrightconsulting.co.uk