NICOLA HALSE Owner, Riverside Marketing Solutions
What did you set out to achieve this year?
I set out this year to grow the business, gain several extra clients and more importantly for me, enjoy it. I’m proud to say, I’ve done that and more! The new clients I’ve started to work with this year have got great businesses and I’ve loved promoting their brand, increasing their exposure, representing them at events and ultimately, see their business grow.
Has everything went according to plan?
Of course not, but surely that’s part of the fun? There will always be bumps along the way but you learn from them, I’ve learnt not to say yes to everything and have some time to myself if possible, if you have a calmer and positive outlook, I think that even when things go a bit wrong, you can manage them without panicking and getting too stressed.
How has the ongoing Covid crisis affected your business and how have you mitigated this?
In all honestly, the Covid situation has actually helped my business. Many businesses realised that even during the lockdown periods they needed to maintain their presence whether that was via their website or social media. In the present climate, many smaller companies cannot afford a full time marketing or business development manager therefore my flexible, no contract services have proven really popular.
What are you most proud of this year?
Professionally, it’s my business doing better than I ever could have imagined when I initially launched in April 2020, I’m working with fantastic clients and have loved helping to build their marketing presence. Personally, I’m so proud of my son who got fantastic GCSE’s results, the last 18 months or so has been such a difficult time for young people but with hard work and determination he got the results he deserved so now it’s onwards and upwards.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve received this year?
The best piece of advice was actually given to me by my husband who simply said to take more time out for myself, he’s ran his own business for many years so has the experience and knowledge to be able to tell me where I might be going wrong (and right!). I’ve now realised that in order to help anybody else, you ultimately have to look after yourself first.
What have you learnt about yourself this year?
I’ve learnt that I’m pretty resilient and although I don’t like admitting it, quite competitive too. I never thought I was, however, I think I’m competitive in a good way (hopefully!), I just want to do the best for my business and for my customers, I always want them to be the best in their marketplace so I suppose, yes, I’m quite competitive!
What’s been the most enjoyable business social event you have attended?
It’s got to be going to Durham Cathedral to see the Museum of the Moon, I’m a member of Durham Business Club and we’ve definitely been spoilt since the return to face to face events this year but this was the best one for me. Amazingly, I had never been to Durham Cathedral so to go for the first time and see the moon installation was brilliant.
Describe 2021 in three words…
Challenging. Positive. Enjoyable.
What does the remainder of the year hold?
Lots of parties and spending time with the family hopefully! It’s been a manic year and I haven’t had much time off so I’m looking forward to recharging my batteries, taking some time off over the festive period and looking forward to another good year in 2022.
