Putting yourself out there....

Along my travels of growing and nurturing BoBelle, I have met an awful lot of budding entrepreneurs and aspiring fashion retailers. They generally have a common theme to their questions, mainly 'how do I make my business grow faster'. This, I believe, is a star question with not just one answer to it. My answer each time incorporates common sense with putting yourself out there.

What do I mean by 'putting yourself out there'? I mean take advantage of all opportunities and make things happen. However, don't expect it to be all plain sailing. When I first started I did the market stalls in the rain, wind and snow. I handed out leaflets. I posted flyers through peoples doors. I called up newspapers and bloggers, desperate for features for BoBelle. I participated in small shows. It was tough then and it is tough now. However, if you are passionate about your product/service, it is not such a chore. What is there in your field that you can grow or learn from? Do you have a mentor? Have you contacted your local Business Link? Do you attend seminars by like-minded businessmen and women? Are there any competitions you can enter?

A few months ago I read Marie Claire's 'Win Inspire and Mentor Programme'. With these sorts of things I always go by the mantra, 'nothing ventured, nothing gained'. With this in mind, I entered. Prior to that I put myself forward for the DediPower Digital Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Despite BoBelle London not being solely digital, I won the runner-up prize with Craig Martin, the CEO. From that I then was put forward for the Top 35 Women under 35 Award with Management Today, and indeed Red magazine's Top 20 Red Hot Women of 2010. I have met the most amazing people at these various events, and keep in contact with them. That is key. It is not always about 'what can they do for me' attitude, but rather, 'how can I nurture this relationship long term'.

The key to putting yourself out there is realising also to crawl before you can walk. Of course, you may dream of supplying your product globally to every large national and international retailer in the world. Don't lose sight of that dream, but don't ignore all of the small steps along the way. Build up your portfolio of contacts. Exhibit at small and large events and communicate with as many people as possible to tell them about your brand. This is vital - remember, people love to talk!!

It is not always easy growing a business. It can be a lonely time and is generally a 24/7 job. However, montior your growth and have small goals written down of what you want to achieve and when, this always helps and keeps you going when things get tough. Above all though, enjoy what you do and make sure this above all else shows when speaking to people - nothing is stronger than pure passion.

Claire Watt-Smith, Founder of BoBelle London
www.BoBelle.co.uk

Small Business is Big Business event with Boris Johnson and Tim Campbell

Having found the invitation via Twitter (can you believe that is how we network sometimes now?!) I thought it would be thoroughly enjoyable to attend the Q&A that was being held in St Paul's with the Mayor himself and a selection of panelists to discuss the ramifications of the credit crunch on small businesses.

After a small introduction of each panelist, the questions came flooding in from the audience. Electric vehicles, the banks, scope for growth, social enterprises and more (as well as the CC) were discussed. About 500 people attended the event; I had hoped for a little more banter on small businesses in particular, and even micro businesses. The issue of funding is still major and often a real hindrance for some reaching their goals. I have to say, the room was packed with energy, vibrancy and entrepreneurial flair. I was honoured to be a part of it and as soon as I could, ran down to speak to the panelists myself.

I have actually met Boris Johnson before in Oxford prior to him becoming Mayor. I find him hilarious; incredibly articulate, bright and charasmatic. Tim Campbell was inviting, passionate and energetic. He was really pioneering social enterprise and helps a lot of underprivaliged children focus on their skills and building certain attributes. Sue Terpilowski is from the Federation of Small Businesses, of which I and BoBelle are members. The FSB exists to bridge the gap between businesses and the government. If ever you have an issue with something, you can call the FSB. If ever you need advice on insurance, HR queries or networking, you can call the FSB. They really are fantastic and a great asset to have. Colin Stanbridge, as well as being noted for working at the BBC for as long as I can remember, is part of the Chamber of Commerce. He again was incredibly articulate and found him to be light-hearted and gentle, too.

I wanted to question Boris, Sue et al issues on finance, how London is helping businesses grow, what incentives there might be for micro companies and how they think England will get out of this recession. Of course, not all of my questions were answered! I do however have all contact details so will find out more and let you know.

I am really looking forward to the next event; I hope it is longer next time. It is a great way to boost one's confidence; there is nothing more exhilierationg and exciting than meeting budding business men and women who are all in the same position and who all have one thing on their mind; growth.

Let's see how BoBelle London will carry on growing, shall we?

Pictured above are the programme and the panel of judges, with Boris standing