When you set out to follow your dreams, you don’t expect a global pandemic and economic shutdown to follow along for the ride.
Krystal Brown, who this month celebrates a year running her own First Class Accounts business, discovered that starting a business in uncertain times means she can write her own rules.
Krystal shares how she works to find work/life balance and how she has tackled the first year in business.
What made you want to start your own business?
I am at a stage in life where I was ready to follow my dreams. I wanted to have a career that combined my passion for finance with helping others achieve business success and provided a healthy work-life balance.
I have two young children and want to have the ability to be present and see their school plays and cheer them on at sports days without having to ask permission. In the past, I have found myself giving 100% for my employer but not necessarily having that returned as an employee. By starting my own business, I get the return from the effort I put in.
How did your first year start with First Class Accounts?
Starting my business in COVID, I was concerned that my plans would be held back. I was relieved that First Class Accounts pivoted to provide virtual training and support. The training was so invaluable. Everyone in the team have offered endless knowledge from all aspects of the business and passed on so much “need-to-know” information for a start-up franchise.
I learned so much those first few intensive months and was completely supported to build my knowledge of bookkeeping and marketing. I was given a mentor, Russell Sheil of First Class Accounts Carindale, who has been a First Class Accounts franchisee for 10 years. His knowledge, experience and passion for the industry is incredible.
I have set up a meeting/phone call weekly, and I appreciate the time he takes out of his very busy week to talk to me and answer my questions regarding being a franchisee.
How have you found that work / life balance?
For me I get so excited and passionate about what I’m doing. For a while there I pushed aside the family stuff where perhaps I shouldn’t have. It takes a while to learn your boundaries and would take calls all the time and work weekends.
I have a real sense of responsibility to my clients. They’ve given me a great level of trust in their business and I want to give that back. I also know I have a certain responsibility to the brand as it has such a positive reputation. I like to have pride in what I’m doing.
I did reassess though and it has been helpful. I asked myself if I really wanted to be that busy.
I’ve now been able to arrange my life having a four-day structured week and that works for me and my family. I think I’ve been even more productive in the four days a week I now work.
What have you achieved this year you are proud of?
I’m proud of what I’m instilling in my children. A hard work ethic is important. They know if they work hard then they can achieve the goals they set for themselves.
Would you recommend anyone interested in starting their own bookkeeping business to start now?
Yes, I would definitely recommend joining the First Class Accounts family. The training is on point, and the support is exactly what any new business needs to succeed. There is no better time to start your journey as a First Class Accounts Franchisee.
Find out more about First Class Accounts franchise opportunities here or contact us on 1800 118 611
