motivation | break through
Be your own boss
Working for yourself can be rewarding and fulfilling and can create opportunities for others too as Paul Donno’s story illustrates, writes Marianne Curphey.
At a glance
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Self-employment offers great opportunities to use your talents
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AAT can power up your training – use it as the foundation of your skills
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Hard work leads to success – going the extra mile creates a loyal client base
Overcoming a life setback
Paul Donno’s determination and hard work has led to him building a successful accountancy practice with 300 clients and 15 staff over 10 years.
When Paul Donno was made redundant he decided to make a significant career change and become self-employed.
00.09 “I was made redundant when I was 24, and I made a decision to work for myself,” he explains. “I knew I was good at selling. I knew that I was good on client development, so I gave it a go.”
Building a business around family life
1Accounts has achieved significant growth within 10 years, and Paul is proud of this accomplishment. The 15-strong digital-only practice has a strong social media presence, with regular updates online often featuring Honey the dog who is the office mascot. Paul has been successful in creating a close family environment within the business.
00.44 “My greatest achievement is to bring the family on board,” he explains. Running his own business has meant his wife and daughters are all involved.
Flexible working, greater control over your future
If you are considering joining a practice, or working for yourself, your AAT qualifications will give you practice and study skills in all the areas you will need. Combining work and study and thinking about how the theory you are learning applies in the real world can be a great way to consolidate your learning.
00.50 “It has changed my life. It gives you the freedom and opportunities because I am self-employed and AAT has always been a big part of that journey.”
Growth is possible
Paul’s philosophy of excellent client care and going the extra mile means that he now has a client base of 300, built up within just ten years.
01.29 “Dad has always been his own boss,” daughter Katie Donno explains. “That's the kind of person he is, whether that's helping a client working on the weekend or working late one night. It is proof that if you work hard you can get to somewhere like he is today.”
AAT makes all the difference
All members of staff have or are studying for an AAT qualification. Paul credits the AAT training with providing him and his team with the skills they need to operate in today’s world of accountancy.
00.56 “AAT has played a key role and has been a big part of that journey,” he says.
Getting started
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AAT qualifications can be a great springboard to an exciting career in accountancy
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Think about the skills you have and what you most enjoy at work and study
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Self-employment can offer great opportunities for flexibility and freedom to grow your own accountancy business
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