First things first, who are you and how do you help small businesses?
I’m Grace, and I help businesses grow their exposure and brand awareness through social media.
When there are so many things to juggle in a business, social media is often at the bottom of the priority pile. It can be daunting to approach for some, and for others they just don’t have the time or capacity to use it effectively for their business.
But by outsourcing this part of a business to me, it is certain that their social media is taken care of by an expert – with consistent content being created and shared, keeping their audience and potential customers engaged.
Social media can play a huge part in the marketing of a business. I ensure it is done effectively for my clients.
What made you become a member of Start-Talk-Grow?
Start-Talk-Grow is made up of business owners with their own expertise, all of which offer an incredibly useful service to anyone new in business. There are so many little things a new business owner has to do correctly, and it can be a mine-field! STG covers all basis – it’s a brilliant concept.
I wanted to join this brilliant community because I know from starting a business in 2018 how challenging it can be. If I can give something which makes the journey easier for start-ups, then I am happy to do so.
What inspired you to start your business?
I wasn’t ever sure what I wanted to do as a career, but I always had a passion for social media. This passion accelerated when working in a marketing agency, when I gained experience in crafting social media content for different businesses. That’s what I love most – being able to delve deeply into all different types of organisations and industries. Every day is different and I am always learning.
What makes you different from others in your field?
I give a personalised service to my clients. I understand that every business has to have a different approach to social media, so the social media content I create is tailored to the business’ needs, their industry, and what their audience and target market will be interested in seeing. I don’t create “batch content” – my content is purposeful and thought through for my clients.
What are the greatest achievements you’ve had in your business?
To be honest, the first year was super tough. I considered packing it all in and finding a job in a similar field. But I gave it one more push, delved into lots of networking, and three years later here we are! The hard work keeps paying off – the business has doubled in profits every year. I feel proud of how far I have come and how much Get Social has grown. Looking back I would have never expected to do some of the things I have; speaking in front of tens of people, holding training sessions for the local college, working with huge organisations.
What did you wish you knew when you started that you have learned along the way?
How important your network is. Being a part of different business organisations has given me so much support, guidance and inspiration. Especially as someone who works alone. I would strongly recommend to any business owner to find business communities that they can join and build relationships in – there are so many benefits.
The quick-fire round
Which is your favourite social media platform
For business – LinkedIn. For personal use – Instagram.
What is the best bit of work kit you have?
It’s not exciting, but it’s got to be my laptop. I’ve had it for almost 10 years and it’s still going strong. Thank you HP!
What was the best piece of advice you were given when you first started? And by whom?
This isn’t specific, but since starting my business I have been given an endless amount of support from my mum and my partner, Danny. They’ve helped me make decisions, guided me through my stresses, and celebrated my successes!
Imagine you’ve been given an unexpected day off – how will you spend it?
A last-minute trip to London to do some exploring.
Which is your while-you-work drink of choice?
Herbal or fruit tea – camomile is my favourite.
Which is your favourite business book?
Life Leverage by Rob Moore. I’ve read a lot of business books but this one really resonated with me. It inspired me to take on my first member of staff this year!
What is your secret to success?
Always go the extra mile. The more you put into something, the more you’ll get out of it.
GET SUPPORT WITH YOUR PEOPLE
