So because of the high demand for her services, Ms Barden has teamed up with the Bellingen Co-Working Network and Bellingen Chamber of Commerce to offer two free workshops for small businesses, sole traders and start-ups. These events will be held at the next Co-Working Day in the Bellingen library Monday, October 19. 

“Everyone has a great idea – some of us want to turn that idea into a business,” Ms Barden said.

“If that’s you, you might have lots of questions: How do I know if this idea will work? How do I get started? Where can I get help?”

The start-up workshop runs from 9.30 to 12 aims to help answer some of these questions.

“Holding this workshop rather than simply talking to individuals is a great way for me to provide information to participants, while giving those participating the added benefit of the chance to network and to learn from each other,” Ms Bardon said.

In addition, Ms Barden’s colleague, Annelies Voorthuis, will run a concurrent session between 10am and 12 called Honing your elevator pitch.  

“Imagine you've just bumped into a former client at the airport,” Ms Voorthius said. 

“After exchanging pleasantries, she asks you what your new business does. You open your mouth, and then pause. Where on earth do you start?” Ms Voorthuis will help workshop participants to develop a short spiel that clearly explains what your business does and the benefits it delivers.

If you’d like to book into the workshops, email: fiona.barden@etcltd.com.au for the start-up workshop orenquiries@thea.com.au for the elevator pitch workshop. A free lunch will be served after the workshops, sponsored by the Bellingen Chamber of Commerce.

The library will also be available on October 19 for any freelancers who need to get of their office or out of their own headspace for the day. To receive updates join the Co-Working Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/bellingencoworking