Three months after officially launching Green Ginger, our founder Nick has put together the 10 most important lessons he has learnt so far.
✔ It is hard work. Celebrate the successes (no matter how small) and understand you are on a journey. The destination will be worth it; however, you eventually get there.
✔ You will be pulled outside of your comfort zone. Embrace it.
✔ Lay the right foundations. Let’s be honest, nobody set-up their own business to set-up a bank account, find the right office space or buy the right insurance but they’re important. Set the right operational foundations and build.
✔ Starting your own business can be a lonely place. Make use of local networking groups to meet people, learn about other businesses and share ideas.
✔ On the subject of networking, find what works for you. There are many different styles of groups, from breakfast meetings to round tables. From industry specific events to after-hour curry nights. Try as many as you can and find what works for you.
✔ Use LinkedIn as much as possible. Ask questions. Get advice. Share ideas – somebody will be more than happy to help. Shout about your brand online and create an identity that people can buy into.
✔ Keep going. Read books, listen to podcasts, watch videos online. Support is everywhere. Use peers, friends, family for advice and guidance.
✔ Take time to switch off. It’s easy to feel guilty when you are not doing work – either on an evening or weekend – and to slip into 12-hour working days. DON’T. Make sure you take time to switch-off and recharge.
✔ Collaborate. 10 years working for a single company has probably made me a bit blinkered. I’ve found it incredibly exciting to work and collaborate with so many fantastic people – you can’t be an expert at everything so find someone who is and work with them on areas you are not so strong.
✔ Dig deep. There will be tough moments and disappointments but learn from them, not every proposal will lead to something.
Most of all – ENJOY IT. After 10 years working for someone else, I wanted a fresh challenge. After only a few short months I’ve met 100s of great people – some of whom I’m proud to call a client, learnt new skills and most of all been pushed. I’d love to hear about your start-up journeys, and if you’ve found similar challenges.
A big thank-you to those who have helped us on our journey so far.
Want to learn more about Green Ginger – get in touch today!
