Starting out freelancing can be really daunting – there’s a whole heap of unknown unknowns. One of these unknowns is what do you actually need so that you only buy what’s really essential while you’re starting out? So here are my essentials from my start-up journey:

Laptop (around £500)

It may seem obvious but it can be a big early expense. Our old family laptop just wasn’t up to the job, and it’s much better having something separate just for work. Depending on your type of work, it’s unlikely to need to be brand new and top of the range. For example most of my work is online calls, slide decks and word documents so I got a refurbished Dell as a trusted brand and only went to an i3 processor.

Second screen (around £100)

This one’s essential for me. I spend too long flicking between documents and screens or needing to read things while hosting events and meetings. A second screen makes this a million times easier.

Ergonomic support (around £60)

It might stop you working immediately, but it might prevent longer term health problems. There are three things I’ve invested in so far – one is a decent adjustable laptop riser so my laptop is elevated up next to my second screen, the second is a wireless keyboard and mouse set (because of the riser), and the third is a rolling foot rest, which is one of my favourite things. I’m now debating a standing desk but that’s a whole new level of commitment to ergonomic working!

Noise cancelling earphones (around £30)

These are a recent addition for me and I’m in love. Sometimes I’m working from home while the kids are here with their dad and they aren’t great at keeping the noise down. The other reason I love them is heading out and about and working from co-working spaces or cafes – they have brilliant technology to limit background noise and amplify your voice so you can really concentrate on your calls (or motivational music) wherever you are.

Laptop bag (around £30)

My work means I’m sometimes out running events, as well as enjoying using a local co-working space so I’ve got a bag that comfortably fits my laptop, a travel riser, mouse and keyboard as well as pad, pens, snacks etc.

Stationary supplies (around £10)

Since I facilitate events, my supplies include flip charts, markers, post-its, coloured pencils and big packs of biros, however to start out, most people just need a pad and pen. If you feel fancy, treat yourself to some highlighters or anything else that gives you a bit of a buzz about starting out.

Storage (free!)

I’ve got a desk drawer but it can easily be a folder, a poly pocket or anywhere really, it’s just essential to have somewhere. There’s the occasional receipt to keep for bank reconciliation, a physical report to read or simply somewhere to store your notepad and stationary supplies.

In essence, the physical equipment list is pretty small and straightforward – there’s even a lot of this you can go without in the early days to make starting out as cheap and easy as possible. What is important though, is that you only pay for what you need for your business, that that these costs come out of the account you’ve dedicated for your business so you can always keep an eye on your outgoings.

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