The Story behind The Sorting Office

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Hi, I’m Alison. I set up The Sorting Office in 2015, and I sort business support for small businesses, organisations, groups and events. I am brilliant at championing and supporting others, but hate talking about myself, but here goes...

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Most of my clients are reliant upon external funding or membership fees and have limited budgets to work with. But that’s ok - I never expected to be rich anyway. But it does mean I understand the constraints which you might be working under – and how I can work with you so that you get the best out of my time and experience.

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I can help you to sort your business administration, marketing - both digital and good old fashioned print - and provide full social media support - including image sourcing and design, planning and scheduling and targetted campaigns - as well as all aspects of events organisation and management. And most other things in between (just not bookkeeping – I don’t really do numbers)

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For many years, I worked as a legal executive – basically doing the job of a qualified solicitor without the salary, but – well, see above.  I completed my law degree whilst working full-time - which when I look back was no mean feat. I specialised mainly in Family Law – separation, divorce and parental rights and responsibilities. I learnt a lot, not least that I loved advising and supporting clients, and that I have a lot of compassion and empathy – and a real desire to help people.

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Over the years, I gathered many useful and transferable skills – like the importance of good communication, sensing tones and language to use in different situations,  working to tight time schedules, the importance of confidentiality and accuracy of work.

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Then.... marriage, children, moving back to my family roots in Perthshire, I was approached to carry out some admin work with the local tourist association by a friend, who thought I would be good at it. I decided to give it a go - and so the change of direction of my career began!

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Long story short, here I am, lucky to work with a number of third sector organisations - both more locally in East Perthshire and Dundee & Angus, as well clients who work across Scotland and beyond - providing a range of support services, to suit their individual needs.  My clients come from a variety of backgrounds, including enterprise support, tourism, child protection and the arts – meaning that no two days are the same!

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My approach is always professional, but also friendly and flexible. All tasks are approached with good humour and a "can do" attitude. I will roll my sleeves up and get stuck into a challenge, even if it’s not the one I had first envisaged. If I feel that I really cannot help you out with something I will say so - and will probably be able to put you in touch with someone who can.

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I am always brimming with thoughts and ideas – which is *mostly* a good thing. ​I’m never short of a view, opinion or suggestion, and I’ll always go the extra mile to help out.

If you think we would be a good fit, get in touch for a chat about how I can help you to get sorted. Oh and very importantly, I am powered by builders tea - the kettle is always on.

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So, get in touch, and get sorted!

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Alison Powrie

The Sorting Office