Hi Lisa, With 20 weeks of pay, you've got an excellent chance to get a business going. That's far better than having to rely on "unenjoyment" benefits from the get-go. Use the time wisely and be frugal with the lump sum payment. Resist the urge to go out and buy something special. People have a tendency to squander sudden "wealth". You'll probably find yourself struggling financially for a while--at least until you're able to build your reputation as a contractor. I've heard it said that start-ups should have enough cash to operate for a year to be successful and that two years' worth of operating expenses is a better starting point. You'll have about 5 months to get things rolling. So, stretch that money as far as you can make it go. If you do it right, the disciplined approach will pay off big time in a year or two. If I were to recommend one "purchase," it would be to buy a decent computer if you don't already own one. It doesn't have to be top-of-the-line, but I'd go for the most bang-for-the-buck. If what you have will work for you, then hold off until your income is more reliable.
Don't forget to make your services known to your former employer. More often than not, from people I've talked to, former employers are eager to bring laid-off employees in as contractors. They can't just let the work go undone. When I was laid off, a local quasi-governmental/business organization offered classes for starting a business. They offered lower tuition (25% of full price) for people who were eligible for unemployment benefits. Make sure you check with your local unemployment office. Look for groups in your community that promote small business training like the Chamber of Commerce, S.C.O.R.E. (Service Corps of Retired Executives--I think), or similar agencies. On top of that, you've got some experience running lists like this. That should provide some good background training for soliciting business. You can do it and I suspect many of us might look at you in a couple of years with a bit of envy in our eyes. We'll likely forget the struggles you're likely to have faced along the way. Best of success and keep us posted. Tom Johnson -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Lisa M. (Bronson) Gielczyk (TCP) Sent: Tuesday, May 01, 2007 12:00 PM To: TCP List Subject: [TCP] first time for everything In my ten-year career as a technical writer, I've always been able to say I was never laid off--that is, until last Friday. The company I have been working at for nearly nine years eliminated all three of the technical writers' positions, due to a company-wide reduction following a change in ownership. I've been wanting to start my own business doing interactive 3D documentation (software reseller, training, tech support, and consulting), so it's really quite perfect. Beginning next year, I will be moving frequently as my husband finishes his bachelor's degree, pursues an M.Divdegree, does an internship, works for a few years, and then goes back for his doctorate, so having my own home-based business will be better than getting a new job every 1-3 years. With the elimination of my job, I will be paid through May 15th, and then will receive a lump sum payment for 18 weeks of severence pay. They will continue my health insurance coverage for six months at no cost. Not a bad situation, all things considered. I realize I will have to talk to officials and professionals in some areas, but there are still things I'd like to hear about from people who've "been there" (and of course, sympathy and encouragement are always welcome, too... even though this is a great opportunity, it's still an emotional experience): * I received severance; can I also get unemployment? Now, or after the18 weeks? * What resources do you know of for starting a business, particularly a woman-owned business? * Have you ever done a press release to announce a new business or make some other announcement? * Corporation, LLC, or other business setup? * Other things I haven't even thought of, yet? Thanks everyone! Lisa G. ______________________________________________ Author Help files and create printed documentation with Doc-To-Help. New release adds Team Authoring Support, enhanced Web-based help technology and PDF output. Learn more at www.doctohelp.com/tcp. DOCUMENTATION & TRAINING WEST 07: THE USER EXPERIENCE April 18-21, 2007 ~ Vancouver BC ~ Marriott Pinnacle ~ free city tour 40+ sessions * free workshops * free iPod offer * www.doctrain.com _______________________________________________ Technical Communication Professionals Post a message to the list: email [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, unsubscribe, archives, account options, list info: http://techcommpros.com/mailman/listinfo/tcp_techcommpros.com Subscribe (email): send a blank message to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Unsubscribe (email): send a blank message to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Need help? Contact [EMAIL PROTECTED] Get the TCP whole experience! http://www.techcommpros.com
