When it comes to describing your business, do you really think your legal structure or job title tells the whole story? In this episode of "From Creative Passion To Profit", I dig into what really matters when you’re talking about your business—and why the usual labels often do you a disservice.

If you’ve ever hesitated before introducing yourself as a freelancer, self-employed, a charity, or a voluntary organisation, you’re not alone.

I’ll challenge some of the common perceptions (and misperceptions) of what makes a 'real' business, and show you why that thinking is often outdated.

You’ll hear why the true definition of a business isn’t about your size, how many staff you employ, or how you’re registered.

Timestamped Summary:

When it comes to describing your business, do you really think your legal structure or job title tells the whole story? In this episode of Numbers Knowhow, I dig into what really matters when you’re talking about your business—and why the usual labels often do you a disservice. If you’ve ever hesitated before introducing yourself as a freelancer, self-employed, a charity, or a voluntary organization, you’re not alone. I’ll challenge some of the common perceptions (and misperceptions) of what makes a “real” business, and show you why that thinking is often outdated. You’ll hear why the true definition of a business isn’t about your size, how many staff you employ, or how you’re registered, but about the impact you make, the risks you take on, and the value you offer.

In this episode, I address a bit of snobbery and confusion that surrounds business identity, especially for those in the charity, creative, and freelance sectors. I share why leading with your organizational structure—saying “I’m a charity” or “I’m just a freelancer”—can actually hold you back. Instead, I urge you to put the focus on the work you do, the problems you solve, and the broader contribution you make to the economy and society. We talk about why charities are businesses too, how financial motivation can differ between sectors, and why it’s essential to reclaim and broaden the definition of business. Whether you’re running a grant-funded organization, providing services solo, or are part of a large commercial outfit, you’ll realize you’re more alike than you might think.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a fresh way to talk about your organization that highlights your value and makes it easier for people to understand your impact. You’ll get better at framing what you do so others—clients, funders, partners—see you as a credible, impactful business, not just a label or legal structure. You’ll also walk away with a new appreciation of how business disciplines like planning, budgeting, and risk-taking aren’t reserved for the corporate world—they’re vital in every sector. If you’re ready to tell a more powerful story about your business, challenge old assumptions, and strengthen your case to stakeholders, this episode is for you.

Timestamped Summary:

• [00:00:03] Challenging the ideas of business.
• [00:01:12] Charities and voluntary organisations.
• [00:02:11] The risks and contributions.
• [00:03:13] Being registered for VAT or employing staff — means you’re a real business?
• [00:04:05] Discipline is vital.
• [00:05:39] Different objectives.
• [00:06:23] The big takeaway.

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