Five things I have learned since starting my business

Social etc. began at the start of 2021 in the midst of a global pandemic. I had just been part-time furloughed from my job as Social Media Officer at Bletchley Park and was suddenly faced with the prospect of a very empty week.

Starting my own business had always been part of my plan - But my five year plan, not five month plan! I seized the opportunity. Realistically, I was never going to be in a position where I was earning a full time salary but working part time.

And so Social etc. was born!

In this blog post, I’m going to be sharing the four key things I have learned over the past few years as I went from freelancer to limited company and established myself. So whether you are just starting out on your journey, or long term business owner, I hope you find this insightful.

1. Action is the only thing that breeds clarity.

Sometimes it comes down to doing something and seeing what happens so you can learn. There have been so many points over the last few years where I have put off doing something. This includes launching new services, increasing my prices or even just posting on social media. If you don’t do something, it can often delay progress. And if it doesn’t go to plan, there is ALWAYS a lesson.

2. Go with your gut.

If your gut is telling you that a client will be a pain in the ass, it's probably right. If it is telling you to resign a client, it’s probably right. I have learned this the hard way - a few times. But never again will I work with someone who isn't vibing on the same level as me. That’s why I pre-qualify EVERY lead with a discovery call.

3. Network in person.

Yes, even if you don’t love it. Personally, I find it a challenge and quite exhausting. Often you just need to find the right group to suit your personality and your business. I like small groups of people where business isn't the sole focus and where I can meaningful connections.

4. Invest in your tools and your business.

Getting the right tools is key to running a slick business, as is outsourcing the stuff you don’t like doing. My absolute non-negotiable digital toolkit ensures I can provide the best possible service. That includes Agorapulse for social media scheduling, Asana for project management and Canva for design.

I have also invested in working with other freelancers and businesses to provide a service. My VA, Debs and my Canva Designer, Georgia, are both worth their weight in gold and have helped me to create a profitable business.

5. There’s never a middle ground.

And finally, it is always going to be a roller coaster. There is no middle! It’s either highs or lows and your nervous system can end up totally frazzled because you are constantly in some form of fight or flight. So looking after yourself is key. Finding fellow business owners and taking breaks has really helped me to regulate and feel less alone.

Follow me over on Instagram for more behind the scenes of business owner life and let me know what you’ve learned from running your business.