Do you have big dreams for your business, but aren’t sure which path to take to help you get there? You may discover the answers you need among the stunning landscapes of the Lake District.
From escaping the stresses of daily life to breaking free of your own constraints and finding ways to make running your business seem less overwhelming, Windermere’s Crag and Crest Consulting can show you how to turn your vision into reality.
Company director Martin Wardley reveals how you can build an effective business plan and embark on the adventure towards your company’s future.
Q: How can you help small business owners overcome challenges?
A: I think it’s important to get away from your daily life to help you gain new perspectives and solutions.
We offer a two-day bespoke one-to-one planning session hosted in the Lake District – it’s the perfect place to get inspired. The region’s natural beauty provides an idyllic backdrop to consider where you and your business are heading, what you want to achieve and plan your next steps.
I’m a qualified mountain leader, so we can take to the hills or simply enjoy a stroll along the canal – whatever suits you. We’ll take the time to get under the bonnet of your business, identify areas for improvement and discuss the strategies you can use to get there.
Q: How can a planning session with a business coach benefit both new and existing business owners?
A: We all get stuck in ruts, and when this happens, it’s hard to remain driven. For a new business owner, it can be beneficial to hear reassuring advice and learn practical ways to cope with the changes and responsibilities that come with running your own enterprise.
It can also be useful for existing business owners to take some time out. This will help you conceive new ways to grow your customer base, boost profits and take your business to a new level.
Some business owners don’t realise that the answers they need lie within themselves - it takes reminding someone that they have the confidence and talent to drive their business forward. I believe in taking a mentoring approach, as opposed to a consultancy role. It’s not about making decisions for you; it’s about providing you with the tools you need to succeed.
Q: How have you helped SMEs become successful?
A: We use tried and tested methodologies to help you develop a business plan you can stick to. Incorporating my experience from working with large corporations in retail, travel and telecommunications, transformation projects, and technology development has given me a keen insight into what strategies and processes SMEs need to streamline operations and get organised.
Most recently, we’ve used our teachings to benefit the students at Tallulah Rose Flower School in Kendal. We spend a day with the students showing them techniques they can use to apply to the elements they learn on the career course, aiding their transition from novice florists to successful business owners.
Many entrepreneurs are incredibly creative and skilled in their fields of speciality but are unsure of how to translate their ideas into practical plans. We can introduce you to the world of business ownership and demonstrate the practical steps you’ll need to follow to help you get to where you want to be.
Q: Why is it important for SME owners to build a supportive business network?
A: Building relationships is a vital part of running a successful business. You can discover useful contacts that may transform into working partnerships. It can also help you expand your client base, and you’re able to learn useful lessons from others that have achieved your goals.
I hope to use our sessions and social media to create a community of like-minded individuals, where start-ups, entrepreneurs and medium-sized businesses can come together to share tips, offer support and collaborate to help one another grow.
We’re keen to hear from anyone in the area who’s considering launching a new business or running a small to medium-sized company. I’m excited to get conversations started and begin bringing more people together, so we can all help one another succeed.
To find out more, visit cragandcrestconsulting.com and subscribe to their newsletter.
Follow them on Instagram @crag.and.crest.consulting to get involved.
