Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in accounting services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Melanie Schroeder, Founder of Out of The Box Chartered Professional Accountant, located in Coquitlam, BC, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I have a boutique accounting firm focused on small businesses and owner-managed corporations. We focus on service-based businesses and enjoy providing cost-effective services from bookkeeping to tax!

Tell us about yourself

I followed in my Dad's footsteps and became an accountant. As a child, I loved visiting his office and using the old adding machine he brought home! I started my own firm because I needed the flexibility having your own business gives you. I love knowing I'm making a difference in my clients' lives by helping them navigate compliance issues they don't understand.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I'm most proud of building a business that has been around for 6 years! I went from working on the side to being able to hire employees.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

As a sole business owner, I find that it can be isolating.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

First, do something you love. It's going to require a ton of effort, and you need to remember why you're doing it when you're exhausted and want to give up!

Second, make sure to get good professional advice when you are setting up your business. It's not easy to retroactively fix those mistakes.

Third, find a mentor you can regularly meet with to support and challenge you.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.outoftheboxcpa.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/outoftheboxcpa/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outoftheboxcpa/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/likeitwasmine
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanieaschroeder/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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