If you’re self employed, you may find yourself turning down work as you don’t have enough hours in the day. It’s frustrating as one job well done can often lead to many more and it’s hard not to feel like your passing up future business. It’s doubly annoying if you have a lull a few months later. Taking on an employee is the obvious answer, but it can be a daunting process.

You’ll need to consider how much you can pay, whether to train someone up or get someone fully qualified. Do you offer a temporary position or commit to someone full time? There’s also all the legal and other paper work to contend with. Employers liability insurance must be taken out and appropriate PPE provided. You’ll have to notify HMRC and make sure you comply with workers rights.

This all seems like a major headache but the upshot is you’ll be able to expand your business. With a few employees on your books, you’ll be free to organise jobs better, take more time meeting clients and maybe find time to enjoy the benefits of all your hard work.