Starting a gardening business isn't an obvious move for an IT professional, but switching from computers to compost was a no-brainer for go-getter Gaynor Lane when she took voluntary redundancy from her job. All it took were some words of encouragement from her husband, an advert in the local paper, and bags of enthusiasm: The Garden Girl was bedded in before Manchester knew what hit it.
We coaxed Gaynor indoors for a few minutes to share her experiences for other entrepreneurs looking to grow their own business.
If you could give some advice to yourself five years ago, what would it be?
If you have a passion, find out how you can make it work as a business. Don’t hold yourself back, go for it 110%, and do it sooner rather than later. I should have done this years ago.
What’s been your biggest learning curve?
Saying no to customers. It really is difficult because I want to help everyone, but time is a limiting factor and you simply can’t buy it.
What was your most unexpected moment?
Being an instant success. I wasn’t prepared for it. I had put all the work in beforehand, but you never quite know if your potential customer base is really out there, whether they'll find you or if they’ll even want to use you.
What plans do you have for your business?
To keep it simple. I'll continue to improve my knowledge and skills, and enjoy myself – which is the main thing!
Who gave you the best piece of business advice, and what was it?
My husband, who's been in business since he was 18, said, “you love gardening right? Then you won’t fail. If you think big, you get big. If you think small, you stay small.” I hate to admit it, but he was definitely correct!
When did you realise your business was going to work?
Within the first week! I placed an advert in the local paper and the phone didn’t stop ringing. After that, every job was like having a two-way interview. I had to ask myself: “Can I do the job? Do they like me? Do I like them?” It's important that we understand each other and communicate well because my customers are my colleagues, my bosses and my friends.
How would you like to be remembered as a business person?
I want my customers to know that I give each and every one of them the best service I can. I treat people how I would like to be treated myself: with respect, punctuality, honesty and, of course, with a smile.
What tips do you have for anyone thinking of starting a business?
Offer something unique, if you can. Then you need a presence online to ensure your potential market knows you're out there, and a good pricing structure that's simple but fair, that you can apply instantly to each job. Above all else just go for it. There’s a lot to think about, but take it a step at a time and you will get there. Good luck!
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