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Mentoring clinic offers support for fledgling businesses

Mentoring clinic offers support for fledgling businesses

New business owners learned from business coaches and mentors at a special event.

The Let’s Do Mentoring clinic proved an ideal springboard for new entrepreneurs embarking on business ownership.

A diverse range of business ideas, from a pet care service to an online jewellery boutique, were put to the test at the clinic.

The new entrepreneurs were supported through a half day workshop from business coach Pete Ball.

They were then introduced to experienced business people from the Let’s Do Mentoring team who gave them tips on fundamental business disciplines including networking, marketing, public relations and social media.

The one day event was organised by Let’s Do Mentoring, a service which matches business owners with experienced mentors.

Adele Mountford, who recently launched Adele’s Pet Care Service said: “I was stuck in a warehouse job and always knew I wanted to do something different.

“I have a passion for all animals and have completed a Higher National Diploma in animal behaviour and welfare.

Working with animals is sought after and quite scarce and so starting my own business was an attractive option.

“We provide a bespoke service for pet owners, looking after all kinds of animals.

“The mentoring clinic was a great help. I learned about how to go out and network to help my business and how to use low cost marketing techniques.

“It has also helped me to focus on basic issues such as developing a business plan and advice on cash flow.”

Cake maker Becky Behune is determined to turn a passion for baking into a new business opportunity.

“The mentoring clinic has been very useful and came at just the right time for me as my business, Dilly Boos, was just two weeks old.

“I’m very passionate about my cakes but realise that I have to add good business techniques to make Dilly Boos a success.”

John Thompson, Mentor Broker at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said the clinic was part of the Staffordshire Chambers’ commitment to the Ready for Business programme.

Delegates were invited to attend after completing a Ready for Business Master Class with Pete Ball.

“It is the first time we’ve held the mentoring clinic and we have had great feedback. We are now hoping to hold more.”

“Thanks must go to Pete for his business growth experience and the mentors who joined us on the day to demonstrate to our delegates how they had grown their businesses.”

Let’s Do Mentoring is a Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce programme and is backed by the European Regional Development Fund. Mentors give their time for free and businesses are able to gain up to 15 hours of free guidance from a highly experienced mentor.

To get further information on working with a mentor, or to volunteer to be a mentor, please contact Leila Green or John Thompson on 01782 286666.