Rachael Howourth (@RachHowourth) of Momentum South West shares the story of the first 6 months in business.
Why did you start the business Momentum South West?
I’d dreamt for years of running my own business and I’d always known that if I did, it would be a consultancy of some kind. Working in Sales and Leadership for 20 years in a large corporate business has taught me a huge amount about how to be successful in business. I’ve sold to many different types of customers and managed many different types of staff – I’ve definitely lived and breathed the business world.
But the main reason the business began when it did is because that’s when my confidence level had reached a point where I thought I had enough to offer. I’d been working with a business, just giving some advice and support, and the new strategies I’d advised on had delivered an uplift in business results of over 50%. That’s when I realised I had skills that I could really use to help others’ succeed.
How’s it going so far?
It’s going really great. I’ve now got clients using each of my offerings; strategy, training and coaching. Some of my clients are really successful businesses who are investing in keeping it that way, and some are micro SMEs.
I’ve got so many ideas for the future but I’m keeping my feet firmly on the ground for now. I’ve built a few Training Courses which are my bread and butter; these are ASPIRE Consultative Selling, Negotiation Skills, Leadership Skills and Coaching Skills.
What’s been the hardest part?
The hardest part during the last 6 months has been the time it’s taken to align all of the necessary parts of the business. I’m making sure it’s a brand I’m building and that it becomes easily recognisable, as well as builds loyalty. The marketing activity takes a long time. I know I could now give it to a professional to handle, but they can’t think about my business the way I do. I’ve learnt how to build a website, how to rank on Google using SEO tactics, how to engage in email marketing, how to blog, how to optimise photos, how to start and market a You Tube channel, how to use Instagram for business. The list goes on….
What have you enjoyed the most about the first 6 months in business?
I’ve enjoyed the feedback from clients. Reviews have been left on my Facebook page, Google and sent to me in emails and the positivity has been overwhelming. I did some workshops for Natwest Plc which had amazing feedback and some of my coaching clients are enjoying results they’d only previously dreamt of. It makes me feel incredibly proud and excited for the future. If I can achieve that in the first 6 months in business, who knows what I can do for Momentum South West in 5 years.
The other thing I really enjoy is public speaking. I’ve done quite a few breakfast seminars where I speak on a chosen topic for the benefit of the audience. I like doing it and it always opens up new client opportunities.
Where’s it all heading?
I do have a vision. It’s a vision for 2 years time, maybe longer. I plan to expand the Training Course offering by bringing in different Trainers who are experienced in sectors which compliment my specialisms of Sales and Leadership. I also intent to bring in a customer relationship manager and and digital marketing exec.
But the really big dream….is to open a Coaching Retreat. A place of solace where the big hitters from the city can escape to Devon to invest in their own personal development. I hope for it to be a beautiful barn in the country somewhere, with accommodation and facilities done to the highest standard.
To book Rachael to speak at your breakfast seminar or to discuss your business requirements in relation to Sales and Leadership growth, call her directly on 07980 910316.
Or email [email protected]
