Can you describe your business in one or two sentences?
I am a Business Growth Specialist and grow and scale small to medium businesses. I use a combination of coaching and consulting and work to simplify business with a step by step practical approach that is based on ‘ the real world’ to get results. We understand business, what clients need, and bring a fresh perspective to help give business owners that extra edge.
What drove you to start your business/get involved in this industry?
I saw the opportunity and need to support small business owners who were hard working, but not getting the results or revenue they wanted. I knew if I could help them with a clear plan and road map, taught them the key steps in sales, helped them to set up systems, and kept them focused, then this could transform their business.
What do you love about running your business?
I never set out to start my own business – it happened almost by accident. I was working in a corporate role and a friend asked me to help a family member who was struggling with sales. They had a trade business and the strategies I helped them with worked well and quickly led to an increase in revenue. I got more joy and satisfaction from helping a small business, than making millions for the global company I was working for. This resulted in a major life change and starting my own business!
What have been some of your biggest challenges?
I had a steep learning curve especially in my first year. I came from corporate and didn’t even know anyone who had a small business. I had 2 choices – either go back and get another corporate job or make this business a success. Everything I help my clients with – I’ve lived through and worked my way through it too. So a combination of my corporate background and personal experience, has meant I can help others grow their business the faster and easier way.
What is your biggest ambition?
To help more women in business to be successful for themselves and their families. If they can achieve what success is for them, they are also modelling how hard work can lead to great results for their children. This way we are helping to inspire and motivate the entrepreneurs of the future, and achieve great success for themselves at the same time. The younger generation are our future leaders, and we can help, teach and support them by showing them that success is not just about money, but creating the ‘life’ you want through a successful business.
What does success look like to you?
To help hard working Kiwi business owners to be more successful in business. It is so exciting to see the difference this can make, and to see them grow personally as well as professionally. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients now, and I still love it everyday.
If you had to walk away from the company tomorrow, what would you be most proud of?
Two things: that I have built a great business for myself from scratch, plus I get to work with fabulous clients every day and have helped different business owners to start, grow, expand, and then sell their businesses along the way. Now I am more selective where I spend my time, have great flexibility, and have more exciting things on the horizon.
Who inspires you and why?
I’ve been inspired by many people over the years – from the most well known business people in the world, to local business owners doing great things in their community. And I get inspired when I see my clients doing amazing work, building their confidence and attempting things they would never have thought they would ever do.
What growth have you experienced being in New Zealand Businesswomen?
I joined NZ Businesswomen in the early years of my business and have never left! I have grown as a business owner as well as developing fabulous friendships. Being part of the community has certainly led to an increase in business, but it’s more than that. It is the support, the learning, the showing up for each other, and the great positive community of women supporting other women.
What’s your favourite pastime when you are not working?
I’m often at the beach, summer or winter, love being with family and friends, spending time with my girls, going away for weekends, and chilling out with a good book on the couch.
