2014 END OF YEAR MESSAGE

As 2014 is swiftly drawing to an end I thought it only fitting to put out this final post for the year. I would really like to thank ALL those who have worked in partnership, volunteered or helped to develop 2inspire Network and 2inspire Academy in one way or another. 

I am extremely grateful to have connected with some amazing people this year and truly humbled by the support which has led to an array of possibilities for 2015.  

I must say I have been encouraged and truly inspired by many to keep going, develop myself and to build on my vision. If there is one thing that I have learnt this year is that regardless of what you are going through the best thing you can do for yourself and those around you is make the most of yourself and strive to reach your full potential. This mindset not only keeps you focused but inspires, motivates and empowers those around you.  

It is sad how there is so much undeveloped, wasted potential in this world, granted in some cases it is because the resources and opportunities are not available, but for many of us it is because of insecurity, self-doubt, fear and other negative phrophecies about what we are and are not capable of that holds us back.

Anything worth doing is not easy, if you want to develop your potential and succeed at being all you can be, keep your eyes on the prize and press on, it won't be easy but it will be worthwhile.

So on that note I would just like to add: Remember, circumstances can be over come with determination and faith, don't dwell on the bad, focus on the good. Life is too short to be any thing but happy. Bull doze your way into 2015 with a pledge to make the best of yourself and see what will manifest.

Wishing you all a magnificent New Year and the ability to rise to the top in whatever you endeavour to do.

2Inspire Network Business Profile: Doreen Balogun, Founder of Toast&

In this blog interview we meet Doreen Balogun, The Founder of Toast&, a London based bakery brand which is making waves across taste buds everywhere!

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?

I read through my recipe books looking for new bakes I can add my own twist on. Baking takes up a whole day. I update my blog, Instagram and Twitter and I also research up and coming exhibitions and markets I can be a part of.

What made you start the business and what steps did you take to start operating as a business?

My love for cooking, baking and creating new recipes made me start. I found myself thinking of it everyday. I started with an idea, making sandwiches and bread for my friends and family, getting their feedback. I used their feedback to alter my recipes and makes. Then I came up with a name for my business and the business idea rolled forward from that.

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?

Everyday is an accomplishment. I grow everyday with this business and everyday it builds momentum. It's exciting!

What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?

Not big challenges as of yet, more minor set backs. I have found at times, more in the earlier stages that my lack of research has held me back.

What are your future plans for the business?

I would love to own a bakery. Where you can get fresh bread and eat an amazing sandwich all in the same place with Nat King Cole playing in the background.

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

I would have started a lot earlier.

What’s the best compliment you could receive in business?

'You're doing a great job'


'I love where this is going' and even more in my case 'everything tastes great...more please'

Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?

Being a woman, I think instinctively we want to be the one helping, aiding our friends, family or partner to get to where they want to be. We get so wrapped up doing that, we forget about our own dreams. It's not a bad thing at all but our own dreams need to flourish too. It's also important so we can have more female role models in business ready for the next generation of great women who operate their own business.

What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?

Passion and research. These are the two things that got me started. Visit independent bakeries, bake like crazy and always ask for feedback.

What or who inspires you in business and why?

The great independent bakeries I see and have visited in London, their passion shines through the decor, the food they sell and their customer service. My mum as well, she is a great cook and has admitted she can't bake that well so one day I made it my mission to learn for her and provide her with as much coconut sponges as I could make. She's also great for an encouragement boost.

What is your favourite inspirational quote?

There's too many, one is:

A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination- Nelson Mandela
Then: I don't have money on my mind, money on my mind, I do it for, I do it for the love- Sam smith (my favourite singer right now)


Twitter-toastand
Tumblr-http://toastand.tumblr.com
Email- toastandtalk@outlook.com
Instagram-toastandtomi

Guest Blog: How To Get The Best Out of a Virtual Assistant (VA) – 5 Top Tips

More and more switched on business owners are starting to realise that VAs can be the perfect solution for your business, allowing you to pay for exactly the work you need, when you need it, cherry picking the very best experts in the areas that you need assistance with. 

A VA could turn out to be the best thing that ever happened to you and your business, but it’s important to approach the arrangement wisely and with forethought.  If you want the partnership to work, to last and to be valuable to your business, then we recommend you focus on these five areas:

1.       Delegation

When you started your business, you ran the whole show – but you don’t have to do it all by yourself anymore!  Your relationship with your VA is all about delegation.  Hand tasks over in stages and the results will give you confidence and encourage you to hand over more and more projects.

2.       Expectations

A VA is an assistant – not a business partner.  They may be unfamiliar with your industry, your product, or the way you do business and may not be able instantly to leap in and take over.  Keep your expectations in line with the remuneration you can offer, the time allotted and the level of expertise you require.

3.       Planning

A VA can do many things, but they cannot read your mind.  A clear list of tasks, procedures, or instructions is very important.  You also need to consider how the two of you will communicate.  Make sure it’s clear to both of you what kind of feedback will be needed, when and in what format.

4.       Evaluation

Establish a system for making sure the relationship is working for both of you. It’s no crime to find yourself with the wrong person for the job; be ready to make a quick change of direction if need be. You will have learned something valuable about your working style and can go on to make a more informed next move.

5.       Value

A VA can be worth their weight in gold – or a wasted opportunity: it’s up to you.  Remember that you get what you pay for: tasks like stuffing envelopes may require one level of expertise, but if you ask the same VA to take on more skilled work, you may find they are not up to the task.  Make sure at the outset that you have the right person for the job so that you can realise the potential value on offer.

If you would like to receive our top tips or to talk further about how a virtual assistant could transform your business then please contact GetAheadVa.

Website address: www.getaheadva.com

Twitter address: @GetAheadVA

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/get-ahead-va

This Guest Blog was written By Rebecca Newenham of Get Ahead VA.

2Inspire Network Business Profile: Vanessa Vallely, Founder of WeAreTheCity.com

In this 2Inspire Network Profile we meet the phenomenal Vanessa Vallely, Founder of WeAreTheCity.com, an online network for professional women which is taking the world by storm. By combining a digital platform to empower women in business and women at work, the site has inspired women from across the world. Vanessa is also the author of "Heels of Steel", book about surviving and thriving in the corporate world. Read on and be motivated! 

Vanessa Vallely

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?

No two days are the same for me.  The one thing that is generally consistent is that I take the kids to school and then I am on a train somewhere.  My Iphone and Laptop are as attached to me as my own limbs.  My days are most made up of calls to my clients, visits to my mentees, perhaps a school and generally a talk in the evening.  I wake up at 5.00am on most days to cram as much in as I can before the kids wake up (6.30am).  I don't watch TV or read magazines so I use this time to answer emails and make calls.  I probably put in 12 hours a day, but I am a true believer, what you put in, you get out!

What made you start the business and how did you get started?

I started WeAreTheCity as I was frustrated that there were a number of women's networks and opportunities to up-skill but they were scattered across the internet.  I wanted to create 1 site that was dedicated to women who wanted to progress in their businesses and careers.  WeAreTheCity was formed in 2008 and I ran it for 5 years alongside my corporate career.  We receive in excess of 4 million hits a month and 200,000 unique visitors, so I guess we must be doing something right! In 2012 we launched Careers City, our female job board and in 2014 we launched WeAreTheCity in India.  I left my corporate role at Head of Governance in 2013 to focus on both businesses.

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?

Securing investment, which only happened this year.  We ran WeAreTheCity via our own funds for many years.  I knew I needed investment to grow and this year I locked myself away and wrote our business plan.  We are very lucky in the respect we only showed it to two potential investors and within one week, one of them committed to investing.  I was fully expecting the investment process to take at least year and to bear a few bruises in the process!  It’s a case of be careful what you wish for as now I am dealing with all sorts, building leases, staff, apprentices etc.  It is very exciting and definitely a new chapter for WeAreTheCity.

What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?

Cashflow.  
Big businesses don't realise how they crush us small businesses by taking their time to pay.  When you are first starting out this has to be the toughest aspect of managing any business.  If we need materials or services we have to pay, then we have to wait 30, 45 and sometimes 60 days for payments to reach us.

What are your future plans for the business?

In august we will get our new offices and 6 new members of staff.  I have never had support of this magnitude and in some ways that has what has prevented us from growing quicker.  My husband and I are just two people, with 2 kids, charity commitments and 3 businesses, to have hands to help us will be magical.  I am also an ideas person and have tonnes of initiatives I would like to introduce to WeAreTheCity, however I was always constrained by time and lack of funding.  I am excited that I will soon have the opportunity to explore new markets and hopefully continue to help women in their careers, not just in the UK but globally.

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

Nothing.  I believe things happen for a reason.  
Every step, every disappointment, every celebration and person that came in to our lives and business did so for a reason.  I wouldn't go back and change a thing.  The only thing I could possibly think of was to chose a better accountant when we were first starting out, we made a number of mistakes through lack of understanding of our own numbers!  Always know your numbers, that is what my own business mentee has drummed in to me.

Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?

Because together we are stronger.  I believe in giving back and playing my part in building the next generations of corporate workers and business leaders.  I figure that these people may hire

my own daughters one day!  The world is full of people who tell you all the things you cant do or what you will never achieve, my advice is thank them for their opinions and move on, keep your focus and prove them wrong.  I truly believe you can achieve anything if you try hard enough.  Surround yourself with the right people, do the right thing in terms of helping others and above all, dream big!

What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?

Write your business plan first and do you market research.  I wrote my plan 6 years in to my business and I am sure I would have saved time and money had I done it sooner.   Make use of mentors and don't be afraid to ask others for help.  My biggest advice is network, network and more networking.  The bigger your contact base the better.  However don't just collect people, you need to nurture these relationships, open up doors of opportunity for your connections if you can.  I believe in the saying it’s not always what you know, but who you know.

What or who inspires you in business and why?
I love being my own boss and managing my own time.  I am passionate about women and youth in terms of their progression and as Warren Buffet says, “There comes a time when you ought to start doing what you want. Take a job that you love. You will jump out of bed in the morning”  I jump out of bed every morning because I love what I do and I love the opportunities I create for others, who wouldn't want that job!

What is your favourite inspirational quote?

Your boat doesn't come in, you have to swim out to it – Jason Winters.

Connect with Vanessa

Social media @Watc_girl or the site @Watc_updates

Book:  www.heelsofsteel.co.uk

Website www.vanessavallely.com and www.wearethecity.com

2Inspire Business Network Profile: Mane Divas

In this profile interview we meet Trina and Tamara, the phenomenal team behind the Mane Divas hair retail business.

.

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?

A typical business day for us is very hectic. Trina and I both have full time jobs, so juggling Mane Divas, motherhood and our "9-5's" means that we make 25 hours out of a 24 hour day. On days that we don't have events, we mainly concentrate on sending out orders that have been placed either directly on the site or via our Amazon shop. 

Our customers are constantly getting in touch with us with enquiries and queries about products, so a lot of time is spent replying to them, and ensuring that they are 100% happy with any and all purchases that they make. 

What made you start the business and what steps did you take to start operating as a business?

We started the company as we were dissatisfied with the current state of the UK hair industry and the very apparent segregation between naturals and other hair types. Our main aim was to educate and enlist women with the tools to enable them to have a healthy mane of hair; Natural, relaxed or wearing a protective style we wanted to promote the hair within. Our anecdotal research found that 80% of women wearing weave do so with natural hair underneath. Surely their needs mirror those of a naturalista so why not help each other out? A weave is just another form of a protective style. In our opinion the term 'natural' is a just how you wear your hair. The most important thing is knowing how to care for your mane, there are no hard fast rules. Which is what bought about our company slogan; Just remember; Executive Extensions or Naturalista, we're the MANE Divas for you!

Our main gripe with the current industry was information! There may be products but entering a ‘black retailer’ would not get you the explanations you required behind the item. This made us decide that Mane Divas should be a 'hair experience' company which would offer a range of 'extra mane' facilities. We would provide our clients with not only the highest quality products to get the most out if their chosen style, but the advice and personal experience attached from a brand they can trust. We use the word clients rather than customers as we believe we are offering a service to improve the black female hair regime rather than a product to generate income.

Before registration the company name we researched our target audience for a year before hand visiting salons and shops collating information on what our clients needed. We then looked at what products we would like to sell. Being religious users of their Jamaican Black Castor Oil we felt it was paramount to supply this brand onto our customers as it is not something readily available in shops, especially in our home town of Essex. Personal research has shown that Essex as a county have limited exposure for ethnic hair care products. We were frequently approached asking where we purchase such items. We flew to the head office in Jamaica to test and set up connections with the islands leading brand, Tropic Isle Living top source our Black Castor Oil. We don't sell anything that we haven't personally tested including our hair pieces! Our images are us with friends and family, no paid models. They have all shared their hair experiences with us so we could provide our clients with the best products. When we launched 1 year later we were proud to be the face behind the brand.

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?

It's hard to pinpoint our greatest accomplishment so far, because there have been so many moments that we have been proud of. I would say our most recent accomplishment was being invited by the BBC to be on the panel of a "weave vs natural" debate.  

To be recognised by such a large media corporation, and included in such a controversial topic, really highlighted our place in the hair community and showed us that all of our hard work was really paying off.

What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?

I would say that our biggest challenge so far has been trying to combat hair stereotypes. Mane Divas is a company that does not solely promote  #teamnatural or #teamweave but we are all about #teamhealthyhair. That means that no matter what style we are choosing to wear on any given day, we are far more concerned with the healthiness of your natural hair underneath. 

This becomes quite a challenge to convey to the #teannatural fans when we are wearing/selling weave, and equally the #teamweave fans when they see our natural hair being worn proudly. 

It's an ongoing challenge that we are trying to combat every day.

What are your future plans for the business?

The business is in a very exciting phase at the moment. On the 6th July we will be launching a new aspect of the company called Divas on the Grow. This will be a mobile service offering a variety of topics for the customer to choose from. 

The launch party will be held in the prestigious Water Lily Banqueting Suite in Mile End (tickets are available now). It will be an interactive session, for customers to rotate between the four workstations offering Diva consultations, mini diva styling, diva kitchens and hair loss seminars. These are just some of the topics that will be available in the mobile sessions. 

Launching Divas on the Grow and making it a success is our primary goal at the moment.

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

I think that there is very little that Trina and I would change if we had to start again, because even with every failure and set back that we have had along the way has been a valuable learning curve and provided us with invaluable experience. 

Some of our most significant successes have been born from failures or accidents.  

What’s the best compliment you could receive in business?

The best compliment that we ever receive in business is from grateful customers and their recommendations to their friends and family. To know that someone is so happy with the service and products that they have received from us that they are willing to take the time out to remember us and pass on our information, shows that we are obviously doing something right. 

We absolutely love customers that take the time out to create, write and publish blogs and reviews on our products, we appreciate that everyone's time is precious, so to know that they have felt strongly and passionately enough to tell their followers (and the world) really does mean everything to us.

Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?

It is very sad to say, but the world that we live in today is not one designed for the younger generation. Even with all of the resources and potential that young women have at their fingertips, it can still be difficult to find the opportunities.

Young women of today probably have more drive and motivation than any other generation, but without the proper positive inspiration, it runs the risk of being wasted and their talents never being realised.

Not all dreams are monetary; based on wealth and fame, some aspirations are personal and the achievement of goals will provide a sense of inner wellbeing and fulfilment which will trickle down the generations into their children and their children’s children.

I know that for me my mum was a great inspiration, without her, and seeing her drive, I never would have thought Mane Divas was possible.

A strong positive female role model, has the power to change a nation eventually.

What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?

If someone was interested in starting a business within the hair industry, my one main piece of advice would be to do your research! The natural black hair industry is slowly becoming a saturated one, and the thing that will differentiate you from your competitor is the knowledge that you can provide your customers with, and the sense of security that they will get from your expertise.

There are many companies out there that are purely in it for the financial gain, and those are the companies that eventually customers will avoid because they know that their best interests are not being taken into account.

What or who inspires you in business and why?

On a personal level I am inspired by my parents. They have now retired and have given up the fast paced lifestyle, however throughout their careers, my mum was a leading IT programmer for Cable & Wireless and my dad a Lead Engineer for BT, whilst also running a number of companies, as well as raising me and maintaining a household. They are my true inspiration and proof that if you work hard enough and have the right support structure around you, then any and everything is possible, and nothing has to be sacrificed.

On more of a business level, Trina and I get inspiration from all of the women and vendors around us on a daily basis. Every business woman that we come into contact with has their own story, their own reason for starting the company and their motivation to keep it going. No-one is in this business purely to make money, but are more interested in providing a stable and positive image for their families. To see that they are able to make a success of themselves and their business inspires us every day.

What is your favourite inspirational quote?

There are several quotes that I like to draw inspiration from whenever the need may arise, but in respect for the passing of the great Maya Angelou, I would like to quote two of hers that always make chuckle and think.

The first: “There is an African saying – Never trust a naked man that offers you a shirt”

The second: “I do not trust people who do not love themselves yet tell me “I love you”…”  

I hope that this answers all of your questions as hoped, if you need anything else from us, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Mane Divas Ltd
T: 0208 214 1390
Twitter/Instagram/Facebook: @manedivas

2Inspire Business Profile: Christine Gordon, Founder of L.O.V.E. Chrissie

In this profile interview we meet Chrissie Gordon, the Founder of L.O.V.E. Chrissie, reusable feminine hygiene accessories.

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?
Getting orders out, while still working full-time in a large organisation. Plus preaching to as many women as possible on the alternatives out there to conventional disposable pads and tampons.

What made you start the business and what steps did you take to start operating as a business? It was an opportunity which came my way from absolutely nowhere! I was fascinated and passionate about reusable cloth pads, and especially the Party In My Pants range, which is fondly known as PIMPs. The owners loved my passion, and asked me to join their team in promoting their brand - so I took on the offer and haven’t looked back.

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?
I’ve just started out, but my greatest accomplishment to date is meeting amazing people who are backing me in making my business venture work!

What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?
Cash flow! I believe in doing everything debt-free, and without borrowing money. It’s very difficult, and it shows that you really do have to have money set aside, as you never know what bumps you’ll encounter along the way.

What are your future plans for the business?
Spreading the word to as many people and organisations as possible of the benefits of using reusable cloth pads. 

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently? I don’t think I’d do anything differently, except for maybe not rush too much into the first opportunity I received for help in certain areas. Getting specialists who know what they are doing is 100% better than accepting good-willed friend’s help, who may not necessarily know what they are doing!

What’s the best compliment you could receive in business?
That I’m honest, and have integrity

Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?
Because life is short, and people need to know what you’re all about - as long as it’s in a positive fashion. You can then encourage another generation of young entrepreneurs who maybe too scared to start anything, in giving them encouragement that they really can make a difference in this world

What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?
Go for it! However, research, research, research - and I don’t mean online or speaking to people. Actually USE the products which you’re promoting and understand it from the bottom-up. Have patience and build your foundations first. Build your wealth, do not start anything while being in debt.

What or who inspires you in business and why?
My mother. She’s shown me that you can do multiple things all at the same time, and be successful at it - as long as you love what you’re doing and are passionate.
Also Dave Ramsey, who has shown that you can come back from bankruptcy, learn your trade from the bottom up, and then become successful in your own right, along with showing integrity, morals and just being a good person. Not all millionaires and successful people are horrible!

What is your favourite inspirational quote?
IT IS EASIER TO ADJUST OURSELVES TO THE HARDSHIPS OF A POOR LIFE, THAN IT IS TO ADJUST OURSELVES TO THE HARDSHIPS OF MAKING A BETTER ONE.


Contact Details:

- Company name: L.O.V.E. Chrissie
- Email: hello@lovechrissie.com
- Web: www.lovechrissie.com
- Telephone: 07887 535 668

2Inspire Business Profile: Kay Francis of Francis London

In this business profile we feature Kay Francis, the Founder of  Francis London, a line of luxury candle products which is making waves across the UK and is one of the businesses that will be exhibiting at the ladies day in June.

Kay Francis

A typical day for Francis London is sorting through online orders and organising shipment. 

We also work on new marketing strategies to promote our brand and forge good partnerships. 

I started this company after going natural with my hair, then to mainly purchasing organic food. I wanted to only use products that were natural without losing the luxury. I learnt how to make candles and found there were natural sources that could be used as wax. I visited various perfumeries to learn about scents and from there I began making candles at home and sold them at the local market. The public response went well so from there I began to think about packaging and branding and this has bought us to where we are now. 

My biggest accomplishment so far is doing my first exhibition in earls court.

My biggest challenge is learning how to deal with the negativity of competitors.  We have recently started so out plan is to develop our range 

If I could do it over I would have made mass orders as ordering in small quantities wasn't cost effective and a lot of money was wasted as a result. 

We have received excellent feedback about our scents and packaging. One customer has asked us to do her wedding. 

Enough young women aren't being told to take more risks in terms of business. Despite their best intentions sometimes out parents weigh heavy on is following the safe path in employment. 

Be sure about what you want to produce from the start as changes can be quite pricey. 

I am inspired by friends and other local brands I have seen develop and I always remember "Build your dreams or someone will hire you to build theirs". 

Kay Francis 
@FrancisLondonUK

Attend The 2Inspire Network Ladies Day on Saturday 28th June 2014 at The Novotel Hotel Greenwich

Register for your tickets here: https://2inspireladiesday4.eventbrite.co.uk 

  Media Partners

 

2Inspire Business Profile: Rebecca Newenham of Get Ahead VA

In this 2Inspire Business profile interview we meet Rebecca Newenham, founder of Get Ahead VA, an virtual assistants company. Read her inspirational interview, highlighting her business journey and accomplishments in the world of business.

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?

My day starts with walking my 3 daughters Isabelle 12, Aimee 10 and Robyn 8 to school.  I love the fact that running my own business gives me the flexibility to be able to do it.  Then it’s usually off to either networking or client meetings.  Meeting people is a massive part of my job so it’s a good job I enjoy it!  I sometimes travel up to London as we are currently expanding our business there.  My mobile phone ensures I can keep working – even on the train.  I’m a bit of a social media addict!

What made you start the business and how did you get started?

I always knew that I wanted to run my own business.  My mother ran a tutorial business from home when I was growing up and was a great role model for me.  I wanted to give my girls the continuity of me being able to do school drop off and pick up but I also wanted to contribute financially.  I started to hear about the term virtual assistant more and more, it evolved in the US.  I researched various courses and found one run by 2 hugely successful UK based VAs.   The course ran over one day and it was fantastic as it ran through everything you would need for a home office right through to documentation and types of work we could do.  With my background and contacts I had a clear vision for how I could create a team and service a broad range of customer requirements.  I didn’t want to be a sole trader and always knew I would grow the business and give work opportunities to fellow mothers.

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?

We have been lucky enough to be recognised in several awards including being voted 2nd most loved VA business in the UK through 'the best of' business directory and being selected as a finalist in last year’s MumpreneurUK awards, as well as being a finalist in this year’s Networking Mummies awards.

On a personal level, a real highpoint for me was last year’s Christmas lunch.  Seeing the team together and hearing them all talking passionately about our clients and also the huge benefits of being part of our team made it all worthwhile.  The majority of our VAs have children and I know how much they value being able to work from home, flexibly around their families. 

What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?

Running your own business from home is definitely a challenge but since moving into my garden office I have found it easier to set boundaries.  Technology makes it a lot easier to manage your time but you have to be disciplined.  At one stage I would wake up and check my emails before even putting on the kettle.  This was crazy but an easy habit to get into!

What are your future plans for the business?

I want to continue to grow the team, giving more mothers flexible and interesting work and to be famous for playing a part in helping small business owners to deliver their dreams.  I want to extend our geographic coverage and look at introducing area manager levels within the business.

  

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

Do it sooner!

Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?

My mother was an inspiration to me and I was so lucky that she encouraged me to follow my dreams of running my own business.  I hope to provide the same inspiration to my three daughters and to all the other mothers who work in my team.  I think women can feel that having a family can limit their career choices but our business is proof that there are real, flexible solutions out there that can benefit both women and clients alike.

What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?

Make sure you really consider what your customers want and then deliver upon it.  I pride myself on being a fantastic match maker.  I understand our varied customers’ requirements and then make the right connections between them and our VAs.  I have also been lucky to benefit from a fantastic business coach and would strongly recommend working with one if you can.  My coach constantly challenges me to ensure I am doing the right things to continue to develop and grow my business.

What or who inspires you in business and why?

My mother has to be my biggest inspiration in business.  If it weren’t for her example when I was growing up I don’t think I would have had the confidence to start my own business when I did.

What is your favourite inspirational quote?

“What will be will be!”  It allows me to not be afraid to make mistakes but to continually evolve and learn along the journey.

Contact details:

Website address: www.getaheadva.com

Twitter address: @GetAheadVA

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/get-ahead-va

2Inspire Network Business Profile: Joanne Napier of Linen Loft

In this inspirational business interview we meet Joanne Napier who founded Linen Loft when she spotted a gap in the market for a social selling business which also offered luxurious, high quality bedding and home accessories that are affordable. Her business story is one of passion and dedication and serves as an inspiration to many.

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?

There is no typical day! Yesterday I was sourcing new products for next season, which meant a bit of travelling, while today I am working with my logistics company to fine tune our delivery process. I also need to meet with my web designer to get our new products section finalised and am training two new members of staff on how to host a party and sell the products. It is varied and I love it.

What made you start the business and how did you get started?

The concept of social selling has been around for a few years now and is working really well for companies such as Stella and Dot – the US company organises jewellery parties. I was aware of the success of social selling companies, particularly in the States, and it was during a trip to the US that I spotted a gap in the UK market.

This gap was for luxurious, high quality bedding and home accessories that are affordable and available to women who might not have the time to shop, especially for themselves. The UK home furnishings market is estimated to be worth almost £4 billion and growing, however until now, the opportunity for high quality products to be browsed and purchased at leisure has not been recognised.

A lot of time was spent researching other products and companies and once I was confident there was a gap in the market, I put together my business plan, sourced my first product range and had a good chat with the bank manager! At first I ran my own Home Parties but was keen from the start to recruit other Home Stylists.

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?

Without doubt, setting up this company. It has been a huge learning curve – still is – and takes me out of my comfort zone, challenging me every day. I was particularly proud when we opened our showroom as it really does show off the products in situ. And when we launched in Scotland I knew we were doing well – that felt great.

What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?

Choosing the best suppliers to reflect the brand. I’m not willing to compromise on quality so it took me 12 months to get the products right and I’m still adding to the range so that element is a challenge. But one I enjoy.

What are your future plans for the business? 

Growth – we’ve had interest from potential homesellers in other parts of Europe, which is very exciting, but for now we are concentrating on the UK. It’s important to grow at the right pace and with the right people. So far we have created a fantastic team of representatives all over the UK and I want to continue with that and encourage them to grow their own teams. We’ve also diversified our range and include children’s clothes and products now and that is something that’s going really well, so I’m looking to develop that arm of the business.

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

Ask for a bit more help! At the start I tried to do it all but having met so many fantastic women through this I realise should have tapped into the resource that these girlfriends provided.

Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams? 

Happiness at work is so important, it takes up so much of our time. Women are told these days they can have it all and while I have yet to meet anyone who juggles absolutely  everything successfully (!), I do think there are some amazing opportunities out there now, through training, mentorships, scholarships and funding. Young women need to know that they don’t have to follow a prescriptive path. It’s about finding what is right for you and through sites such as 2Inspire, young women can hopefully see that this has worked for other people, giving them the courage to at least consider their own dreams, even if they don’t pursue them immediately.

What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?

 Be passionate about the product you are selling or the service you are providing. Don’t start a business you’re not going to enjoy - because you are going to spend a lot of time on it in the first few years! And don’t be afraid to ask others to fill any skills gaps. You can’t be an expert at everything. Learn to delegate a little as soon as possible.

What or who inspires you in business and why?

The hotel inspector! I love Alex Polizzi. Her advice is very sensible and sound, but delivered well. She in a very direct, but nice way. She’s professional but approachable but what is key is that she relates to her customers and understands what they need. That’s key to the success of any business

What is your favourite inspirational quote?

I don’t know who said it but I like ‘It doesn’t have to be new, just better.’

FREE Live Online Presentation on "How to build a Health & Wellness Business from Home" with Tobi Ayowemi

The saying “health is wealth” can be interpreted in so many different ways. One common interpretation is that being free from illness and pain is more than any material possessions someone can have. It is a reminder about the richness of a healthy life and the importance of taking care of oneself. This philosophy is being adopted by the masses as research shows an amazing growth of the consumer health industry, this includes a huge increase in consumer health spending, a shift in consumer behaviour and attitudes with a huge number of consumers using the internet to research a broad array of health options and more noticeably retailers across all industries expanding into health and wellness.

With all this in mind and the fact that the health and wellness industry is an emerging trillion-dollar market this THURSDAY NIGHT (20/3/2014) at 9pm - 9:45pm, the network in partnership with Tobi Ayowemi will be holding a FREE Live Online Presentation on "How to build a Health & Wellness Business from Home" 

Successful Health and wellness entrepreneur,Tobi Ayowemi, will be sharing with you how you can increase your income in the following ways:

• Retailers £200-£400+ per month
• Team leaders - £800-£2,000 per month
• Business Developers - £3,000-£10,000 and more per month

She will be personally Training, Coaching & Mentoring You on using Facebook and other tools

to achieve the income bracket of your choice!

Please send an email to events@2inspirenetwork.com if you would like us to send you a link to the Live Presentation.

It will be online, from the comfort of your own home, we won't be able to see or hear you, so feel FREE to be in your PJs!

*With her Coaching & Mentoring Plan, you can build your Business to start making an income of £800-£2,000 per month in 5 months!

Think about what this can be mean for you and your family! It is a journey I have taken and I haven't looked back. Join the call and see what it is about, you have nothing to lose, your health to improve and financial freedom to gain! Contact us for the link to the presentation.

Hazel Chawapiwa

2inspire Network

2Inspire Network Business Profile: Marianne Miles, Founder of Merité Public Relations

In this 2Inspire Network Business Profile we meet Marianne Miles, Founder of Merité PR. Her determination to succeed has led to the growth of her flourishing PR agency, which represents some the UK's fastest rising stars of Stage and Screen.

Marianne

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?

No day is typical!  I could be inside all day answering emails, writing press releases biographies, pitches or planning campaigns or I could be out at events, photo shoots or interviews with clients. 

What made you start the business and how did you get started?

I was made redundant in 2008, then worked freelance for a few agencies. Ultimately I was tired of being told I was over or under qualified for roles I could do with my eyes shut and then being restricted within the positions I had obtained.  In 2011 a friend asked me if I would do PR for their self-published book, I accepted and loved every minute of that assignment, hence Merité PR was born!

Tamar Braxton meets Marianne Miles

What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?

At this stage of business each new client we obtain is an accomplishment because we do not promote our business, we have no web presence, much of our results and communication with the world is achieved via social media, mainly Twitter & Instagram.  Just being able to sustain a business so far and attract great clients has been the best thing for us.

What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?

Positioning ourselves above the many PR Companies that have been set up and battling with clients who do not know your skill set.  Coming from a PR & Corporate communications background I know PR, I’ve done PR for many years I know how it works.  My outlook may different from many, I want to change things, shake things up a bit.  So my approach maybe untraditional for some, but it gets results.  It’s hard to explain to people who think they know what PR is.  But we have happy clients and slowly but surely our reputation will precede us.

What are your future plans for the business?

I will continue with the PR side, expanding with more staff and bigger client accounts, but I will also be adding a production company and a charity foundation which will help to bring out the best in kids who have been let down by the system.  I think it is important to inspire and give back no matter how little you have achieved.

 

The Team: Tyrell Miles Brown (PR Assistant) - Denisha Watson (PR & Events Manager) -Joanne Watson (Events Assistant) - Marianne Miles

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

Chucky Venn and Marianne

Nothing!  I never regret anything I do in life, I believe our outcome is ordained.  I’m happy with where we are right now.  We have just started a great campaign with Domestic Violence UK with some of the Strictly Come Dancing stars involved, we recently co-ordinated a successful charity event, which has led to more work in that sector, and we continue to work with up–coming actors & presenters like Remel London who has a big year coming up.  I can see the light at the end of the tunnel and that is because of the work we have done so far, good or bad.

Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?

Traditionally women have not been allowed to dream of business success or riches in the same way as men, thankfully attitudes are changing but it is still important to let all girls know from a young age that whatever they can dream can be achieved.  We have many examples of women who have obtained success without using their sexuality or feminine wiles; Oprah Winfrey is a prime example.  The foundation I’m starting will be all about tapping into the inner–self, letting young people dream and believe it can happened for them, but most importantly, showing them how to achieve success and guiding them along the way.

What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?

PR is a saturated market.  Everyone thinks they can become a publicist without knowing how much Public Relations covers.  It's not just tweeting and sending out mail chimp blasts.  You have to have a lot of extra skills to survive.  Writing skills are all-important, as well as networking and maintaining your contacts at all media outlets.  The more skills you have, the more services you can offer.  I have just completed Photoshop and In Design training and am currently undertaking videography and editing.  Make sure you get some training and keep updating your skills.

What or who inspires you in business and why?

From the sly, cut throat nature of Mark Zuckerberg to the honesty and integrity of Oprah Winfrey, to the innovation & daring or Steve Jobs, the belief and faith of Lisa Price (Carol’s Daughter) and the ability to grow and evolve like Jamal Edwards. All of these people inspire me in their own way; I hope to have a little bit of each in me one day.

What is your favourite inspirational quote?

As I’m approaching 40 time is of the essence, but this Chinese proverb recently reminded me to live for now:  The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, The second best time is now!

Email:  Info@meritepr.com

Twitter: @MeritePR

Instagram @MeritePRGirl