Helen Butler - Founder of Simplified Operations
What were your career ambitions growing up?
Truthfully, when I was younger, I didn’t have a clear career ambition. Career guidance in schools wasn’t great and I didn’t have any real concept of what opportunities there were; especially in a business environment! I decided against university as I couldn’t think of a subject that interested me enough and instead took a couple of years to try out a few different jobs, finally coming back to my love of numbers, and headed down the finance route. I vaguely remember a notion I had that I wanted to earn a salary that matched my age each year. A bit unconventional, but it was my way of measuring success and personal growth, no matter the job I ended up in!
In your view, what are some of the common operational challenges that small business owners are experiencing?
One of the most common challenges I’ve observed is the lack of clarity and structure in small businesses. Many owners are passionate about their ideas, build a solid customer base and create a team to support, but often overlook the need for a clear operational framework so it can all work well together. This lack of structure can lead to inefficiencies, miscommunication, increased costs, and ultimately, hinder growth. I think there’s a general nervousness around the words structure and process – I think some owners see them as misaligned with the entrepreneurial spirit – but the truth is that having the structures and frameworks in place can create the foundations to enable so much more to be achieved.
What are the plans for 2024?
I’m excited for this year. December and January have been our busiest months to date and we’re currently expanding the team so that we have more delivery support to service new clients, and back-office management support to keep the operations running smoothly. It’s important that I practise what I preach so creating the right team early on is key! Supporting more clients to generate more profits is the aim for 2024.
What has been your biggest challenge so far in business?
Without question, the feeling of isolation that can show up when building a business. Friends and family are supportive, but there’s a gap in shared experiences and therefore it can be difficult for them to truly understand the pressures you face, and in some cases the decisions you’re making. Finding those like-minded individuals who can be your sounding board is crucial.
How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance, and what are your favourite activities to unwind?
There are always swings in terms of where time is spent and I’m okay with that. So it’s less about balance but more about a core set of nonnegotiables to keep things working. For me, that includes making time for exercise and getting adequate sleep. I’ve noticed that if I work after 9pm I’m unable to switch off for quite a few hours and can be awake into the early hours which isn’t helpful! To unwind, I prefer activities that get me moving and out of the work mindset – a run, a bike ride, a training session, anything that helps me reset. If I want to really unwind, I do like to like to indulge in a spa day at Seaham Hall. Bliss!
www.simplifiedoperations.co.uk