How did you come into contact with Flourish and what have been your projects so far?
I first got in touch with Flourish when I saw something on Facebook about a women’s changemaker organisation. I wanted to get more involved with social enterprises, because I’m involved with accountancy services for not-for profit organisations. I then got involved in the Wigan time to grow programme, even though I wasn’t from Wigan! It was one of the first events at Merick Street. I fitted in with the programme and since then I’ve had the opportunity to present a workshop in basic budgets. I’ve had a few social enterprise clients too from the networking opportunities.
How has flourish helped you?
I set up a limited company in 2019 for accountancy. Flourish helped me understand how I should better market myself. I wasn’t fully involved with social enterprises before and Flourish helped me gain more clients out of the various networking opportunities.
Where has your journey taken you? Tell us about the highs and lows of the experience
One of the highlights was presenting the workshop that went down really well! I was so grateful because It seemed to resonate with the people there. One of the low points recently was because I have enough clients to cover my core costs, but it has not yet given me a salary. I’ve taken on a temp position at a housing association which turned out to be very stressful. At one point there was a client that I lost, they had hoped to be onboarded quicker. I was too focused on my other job. It has now eased up, and I’ve stopped working at the other job. Right now I’m concentrating fully on my business, and focusing my social media and marketing and customer services to make sure I know who my ideal customer is and where to find them and how to approach them.
What has been your proudest achievement so far?
The fact that I am attracting customers means I am doing something right! I love the fact that I can put my own values into being an accountant whilst still working for the third sector
How do you keep yourself motivated?
I was actually really bad at keeping motivated when I was doing the temping position. I was supposed to have a balance with work and life, but when the stress levels go up, I tend to neglect myself more and give myself less time. When the stress level goes up, I should take more time for myself. In particular, going for walks in nature, I find them calming and reflecting. But I’ve been struggling with this. It’s essential to have balance in your life.
Any tips to share to other people looking to start their own projects?
Make sure you get involved with some kind of incubator/accelerator organisations that help you with start-ups and growing your business. I wish I had reached out and got more support at the beginning. When you run a business, it’s almost like doing a second job, more support at this in the beginning would have been beneficial, such as how to treat your customers and how to set up sales funnel. Make sure you get the professional support at the beginning – such as from Flourish or other organisations. Maybe even get in touch with your local council.
What elements of the TTG programme have been of particular use
The networking has been really beneficial. You meet more people, which is a good thing when you’re trying to get the word out. The journaling session was also great.
Has it changed anything?
Flourish has helped my confidence levels definitely. I’ve taken Nickala’s advice on sending over emails to get on directories. When it’s the one-to-one sessions, it’s been beneficial because it’s completely focused on you and your problems.
Anything to share?
I think it’s definitely a programme that I hope to continue with, and it’s great that it’s expanding. More organisations like Flourish are needed to point people in the right direction. It’s also great for women empowerment, which is much needed.
