Three local women will be sharing some of the business challenges they overcame in a bid to inspire other women entrepreneurs in Wiltshire to think big from the start.
The first few years can be the toughest in business with more than 15,000 businesses closing every year in the UK. All three women entrepreneurs have survived the early years and are well on the journey to growing their businesses. Each has a fascinating story to tell, from the challenge of finding funding to the search for suitable staff.
They will be interviewed by Sue Stockdale, author of Secrets of Successful Women Entrepreneurs, at the Mission Possible network in Swindon next Monday, May 12. The network provides advice and support for business women and is held in conjunction with the University of Bath in Swindon and Business Link.
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"There's something magical about hearing someone else's experiences that makes us connect with their situation in a unique manner", said Sue.
"Their stories illustrate just how tough it can be in the first few years of business. No wonder so many do not make it. "
One of the panelists is Paula Stockton from Faringdon, who set up Simply Icons in 2005 as a printing and embroidery business for school uniforms. With no minimum order, no stock to manage and free delivery, the service offers a win-win solution for both schools and parents.
Paula's idea came to her initially as a way to raise more money for local schools PTAs, and has now grown to a substantial business that supplies hundreds of schools across the UK.
"I have had my fair share of business challenges to face and in a way they help me appreciate the successes even more. It's about having resilience and determination to keep going and not give up".
The other panelists are Charlotte Falkenau, who manages the five salons of Segais Hair and Beauty in Marlborough, Faringdon, Wantage, Didcot and Newbury along with being a mum to four children; and Rhona Jack, founder of Blue Click PR which is one of the leading technical public relations agencies in Swindon.
The event runs from 12.30 - 2.30pm at the Oakfield Campus, Marlowe Avenue, Swindon and costs £10 to attend.
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