Auto-entrepreneur, learning French and starting a business in France - Debbie Bradbury talks to Guide2

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We caught up with A la Carte independent translator and interpreter Debbie Bradbury this week, who gave us advice on some of the key things likely to concern people planning to live and work in the region.

You speak fluent French, have you got any tips about learning?

I was fortunate to have a flair for languages from a very early age, but I feel you can really only learn a language by spending time with the locals. It's best to join in with local events or activities and to try and watch at least the news in French on the television, as you have the images to help you.  After a while you should catch the same words or phrases.  Taking French lessons is of course another good idea, but it's best to stick to conversation classes - as the French grammar is quite complex.   It's better to make an effort and move on quickly with phrases and vocabulary than to try and be a perfectionist!

What are you helping people with most at the moment?

The new auto entrepreneur status for businesses has brought a lot of new clients my way.  I have spent a lot of time researching the new regime, finding out directly from the French website and the registration centres what is required, and what the advantages and disadvantages are.  I have drawn up a number of easy to understand summaries in relation to this, which clients can access as part of my consultancy services for setting up in business.  I take clients through the process from start to finish, and equip them with the knowledge and skills required to operate as an auto entrepreneur, so they don't need to rely on assistance in future.

Did you find it easy to start up a business in France?

To be honest, it is not a straightforward process setting up a business in France and, more importantly, so many professions are highly regulated.  You need to be sure you are ABLE to carry out the business you wish to do.  France is renowned for red tape and the various steps required for setting up in business are not necessary easily available - you really have to know where to go for advice, or spend ages searching on the internet.  I found it easier than some because I speak French fluently and was able to make enquiries to find out what process I needed to follow.  This is also what I do for others who cannot speak the language!

What advice would you give to others thinking about starting up?

The very best advice to others wishing to start a business in France is to do ALL YOUR HOMEWORK before making any decisions. You need to find out whether you are qualified to work in the profession you have chosen, whether you need to carry out any training, obtain any diplomas or references.  You then need to find out which organisations deal with your profession, which social charges are obligatory, whether you need to be registered for VAT, etc etc.  It can be a minefield and it is not always clear in the beginning. Market research is another very important factor - to check there is a need for what you want to do, to see what fees you can charge and then work out a business plan to make sure that, with all the costs YOU will have, will you actually be able to make money in that business.

What do you like most about living here?

The beautiful surroundings and clean environment, and the safe environment for children - I think they would be the two best things.   When I'm feeling low, I take a quiet drive in the country and realise how lucky I am!  I know my kids can go for bike rides around the village without having to worry about them being in danger and they have a great education and all love going to school.  Also, children are classed as part of the family here and are welcomed in restaurants and other public places - more like it was when our parents were children - and I really like that way of life!

More about Debbie.

Debbie lives in Charente with her husband Nigel, and her three daughters Eloise (13), Lucie (9) and Olivia (6).  She has lived here for over 10 years, and started her consultancy business 'A La Carte' in 2004. For further details of the services provided by A La Carte, click here.