One Year On with UNI-Post

This involved a business plan review etc which we already had in place, so no dramas, but something every small business should have, to give them some measure as to where their business is going.  And it's a great tool to share with those you choose to, so they understand your business and more importantly your vision. 3 to 4 weeks later the money was in the bank and we were off and running.

We've won business with a local Energy company sending daily volume with us, as well as three other local businesses with national reach - one specialising in heat reduction systems; the second being a signage and print business sending items all over the UK and world; and the final one being a fuel poverty charity, again allowing them to do more with the money they raise, which in turn benefits those in serious need.

Spin offs - We've created another business specialising in print - consolidating lots of little business orders and negotiating greater discounts that we pass on to our clients e.g. 500 business cards ordered and paid for before 12 at 400 gsm matt laminate finish delivered next day for for only £30 plus vat where applicable.

Beebaye has just been launched (still working on the website) however it specialises in house, factory, office and business clearances and donates a lot to charitable causes to ensure not everything goes to landfill aiding the environment.

Yes I've learnt a lot, even though I consider myself quite knowledgeable when it comes to business. I'd spend more time focusing on making it easier to understand what we do, making our message simple. Giving people a reason to change now, that is a challenge! Identify who my customers could be and that sometimes NO is the PERFECT answer.

Yes, I already have and it helped an associate of mine in Peterborough - the free business support is probably where I believe both Transmit and ourselves have not ensured we capitalise on these opportunities, eg I do not know what we are entitled to but have never asked or looked to find out - likewise Transmit haven't really pushed this to us either, however I do admit if you want something you have to go and get it, no one will do it for you.

Over-riding all of this is Richard Myers himself, without him I do not believe Transmit would be the success it is and it's a shame other organisations do not have more like him.

Do not let negatives stand in your way but be real and VERY, VERY honest with yourself about your capabilities and that of your business. Remember going into business for yourself doesn't just impact on you, it impacts all of those close to you especially your family.