On the eve of launching my new website, I’ve taken some time to self-indulge and look back at the last 10 years of running my business.
When I stepped out into the brave world of self-employment, I really did take a leap of faith; after all I couldn’t take any clients with me from the Fire and Rescue Service! Instead I had to be totally self-reliant and learn skills I previously knew absolutely nothing about. For example, I had absolutely no idea about websites, domain names, Search Engine Optimisation etc and so relied on friends and former colleagues to help me out. I struggled with finding courses and sources to improve my knowledge creating web content and so, at that point, a great deal of what I used came from other business websites.
One thing I can do is talk … a lot some might say!! And so, whilst networking isn’t easy, I did find meeting other business people and networking clubs and meetings invaluable. I joined a 4-networking group in Perth and met some fantastic business people who were very encouraging. I wasn’t expecting such support from other business owners and that was so inspiring especially in those very early days when I was learning so much from others around me. I think that is why I’m so keen to be involved, and help other business owners meet and learn, at the St Andrews Business Club.
Another skill that I found I have had to rely on is the ability to write: write formal letters, policies, handbooks, web content, etc. This is something that can be really creative too and I’m relishing using that side of me and reaching out to readers/colleagues in a less formal way via my blogs. I’ve found it’s important to share both business tips as well as lessons learned!
Getting support from family and friends is one thing but as my business has grown so has my family … grown up and left!! Hence, I’ve needed to look for more reliable support and I have been very fortunate to be recommended Emma-Jane Kerr who I now work with; and what an immense support she has become. She helps with administration, diary management, social media and web content and has been a fantastic support in working with myself, David Dwyer and Martin Smith at Inspire IT to build my new website which I could not be prouder of.
The past 10 years have flown past and I’m so delighted to be working with such a wide range of inspiring and dynamic business people and business owners as you can see on my website. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have helped and encouraged me in so many ways over the past 10 years. I would also like to thank my clients for providing me with some fantastic testimonials and case studies for the new website, allowing me to showcase some of my working relationships and achievements. Have a look! I would love to know what you think https://www.carolinerochfordconsulting.co.uk/case-studies
I really hope that you find the content on my new website engaging and if you have any queries about HR matters that you’d like to discuss with me please contact me at https://www.carolinerochfordconsulting.co.uk/contact
Caroline