NICOLA HALSE Owner of Riverside Marketing Solutions.
What did you set out to achieve this year?
More of the same from 2021 to be totally honest! I’m lucky in that I have a very stable client base but I did look to increase the amount of one-off projects I offer such as website copywriting and email campaigns. I’m delighted to have recently worked on copy for three websites which are now live. There’s nothing better than seeing your work in print and a website is such a prominent part of a business so I’m delighted I’ve completed several projects for local businesses this year.
Has everything gone according to plan?
No! I think you’re very lucky to have everything go to plan and of course I’m no different, some things work and some don’t but that’s all part of the learning process. Don’t be afraid to try something new and if it doesn’t work out, learn from it.
How has the business adapted following the pandemic ?
Luckily, as I started the business during the pandemic I was really well placed to adapt quickly as we started to get ‘back to normal’. I’ve really enjoyed getting out and about more as restrictions were lifted and to meet my clients face to face again is great.
What are you most proud of this year?
I was super-excited to be shortlisted as a finalist in the StartUp Awards in the Professional Services category. I couldn’t believe that only two years into my business which was started at the very start of the pandemic, I was a finalist. I may not have been a winner on the night but it was fabulous recognition and really gave me more confidence in moving the business forwards (plus it’s always good to get your glad rags on!).
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve received this year?
It’s not advice as such but I’ve certainly learned a lot from the director of Compliant FM, Mark Henderson. Mark has been a client since I started the business and has massively grown Compliant during the last two years. I’ve really taken a lot of inspiration from how he invests in his business in the right way, is very focused and subsequently, has had great success. He’s really shown me that if you want to grow, don’t be afraid to invest.
What have you learnt about yourself this year?
I quite enjoy being out of my comfort zone. I became an Enterprise Advisor at Durham Sixth Form Centre earlier this year and while it may be nerve-wracking to talk to lots of students about your career journey and give advice on their future, it’s so worthwhile. I’m a big believer that businesses should take an active role in the local community if they can, it’s brilliant for me to give something back and it’s something I’ve really enjoyed it. Not only are you helping the younger generation but you’re also gaining valuable experience yourself, it really is a win win, I would definitely recommend it to other business owners.
What’s been the most enjoyable business social event you have attended?
Myself and my husband had a great time at the Grace House Trick or Treat ball in October. It was a fabulous night in aid of such a worthwhile local charity, I somehow ended off successfully bidding on a signed England football shirt from local Lioness, Jill Scott! Alcohol and auctions, it’s never a good mix but all in aid of a great charity, haha!
Describe 2022 in three words…
Busy. Demanding. Optimistic.
What are you ambitions for 2023?
I’m aiming for more success for myself and my clients and getting more involved in my role as an Enterprise Advisor. We’ve also just welcomed a new puppy into the family so a big ambition is that he’s fully trained by January!