What it takes to be an entrepreneur

We recently attended The Workplace Event, which showcases the latest developments in the facilities management world. Now we’ve had time to reflect on the experience, we’re excited to share with our community of budding business owners some of the tips we heard from a panel of self-made entrepreneurs. The panellists discussed what it takes to run your own business and what motivates them, as well as giving advice to fellow entrepreneurs.

Katey Ferguson, managing director, Ferguson Resource Group

“You have to be prepared to fail. It’s about learning from the mistakes and not taking them to heart. You will always get back up and end up succeeding.”

Katey expanded: “Try and do it first, as long as you can, without any investment, without borrowing any money. Try and do it organically. When you start a business, you have so much to worry about and you don’t want financial pressure as well.”

Sophie Donald, founder of Zest Marketing

“The money is great but it has to be about more than that. You have to have a passion for what you are doing.”

Sophie said building brands on behalf of her clients drove her to success. “It’s about seeing the brands come to life and seeing the outcomes that I can deliver.”

She also advised: “Focus on your mission. Be prepared for things to change. Always keep planning and keep listening.”

Andrew Hulbert, vice chair of Pareto FM

“Leaders invest money into staff rather than themselves because that is what will help the business grow.”

Bianca Angelico, director, On Verve

“I know everyone has a ‘negative Nancy’ in their head. As a young woman, I can remember the number of times I walked into a room and I could tell everyone had switched off, the amount of times I felt inadequate and questioned why I was doing it, the self-doubt… You have to be your own biggest cheerleader.”

Bianca said her team of 16 employees inspired her – and she recalled how they had booked a day off for her at a spa, which was revealed as a surprise treat at the company’s annual celebrations. “I realised that it [the business] had made an impact on their lives, rather than it just being about making money.”

Bianca said: “It’s about being OK not being liked by everyone. That was really hard… I am not everyone’s cup of tea and I am cool about it. Think about your USP and values and stick to it.”

Dominic Ponniah, CEO and co-founder of Cleanology

“Go for it but be prepared to plan the long game. It takes time to really establish a proper business – a minimum of five to 10 years. So many people think they can do it overnight.”

If you are an entrepreneur looking for a flexible, customisable workspace for your start-up, please get in touch.