Hi, a few things...I've recently changed from a LTD company to a sole trader - do you think this will affect the credibility/reputation of the profession? I had to make the change, as the work and fees put into being a limited company rather than just self employed are far too high considering I don't earn very much.
Also, I'm looking to put a website together...any suggestions, to start with I was going to use a free site such as WiX or Wordpress.
I'm finding not many people know what Occupational Therapy is! Which is such a shame. Have you been able to get GPs to refer to you as a private OT?
Any suggestions welcome :)
Many Thanks
Hi, I set up my website through Squarespace. I found it quite easy to build and I'm not particularly technical. I agree with the above comments about people not knowly what an OT is.. perhaps give yourself a different title that is more specific to the area of OT you are working in. You can then mention that you are a registered OT on the blurb about you on your website. For instance, although I'm an OT, I often introduce myself as a horticultural therapist, as people seem to be able to get their heads around that more easily!
To answer one of your points, or at least confirm it, I work as an independent OT. I am considering offering services locally, mainly equipment and adaptations. I was talking to an owner of an equipment company I know and he said to me that he doesn't think that most of the public know what an OT is or does. When he tells people that he is going on a visit with an OT they say, 'what do they do? I think it's because OT can be quite difficult to explain!
Hi there Gemma! Thanks for engaging with the Forum :)
What is the name of your business and what does it provide? To better answer your question, could you share your website address and/or social media accounts here?
On initial thinking, we wouldn't think that being a sole trader would harm your credibility/reputation! That would be likely be greater influenced by how you market yourself and the track record/reviews of your service... We understand your point about costs of a Ltd company. We are, ourselves a new limited company, but overheads are lower, since we operate mainly online.
Our website is built and designed with Wix. We highly recommend it!
And yes - there is frustration around a lack of public understanding about our profession. Which is one of two reasons The OT Hub was set up - to raise awareness. We are not currently in contact with GPs. Our service is an information platform for the occupational therapy community, rather than for patients/service users/clients.
We hope these thoughts help a little?
The OT Hub Team
hubteam@theOThub.com