In this episode we hear from writer, editor and brand consultant Robin Swithinbank.  Robin has been an employee, an employer and is now a sole trader, so could be said to understand the world of work from all angles. He reminds us that work doesn’t and shouldn’t define us in however we chose to do it. 

Robin's advice includes:

• The entrepreneurial spirit can sometimes mean you’re impatient - before taking a decision, slow down and take that extra breath to think things through
• Recognise the tension between wanting to get things done and thinking things through
• If you’re entering into a business partnership, it is advisable to learn your strengths and weaknesses on both sides of the relationship. Executive coaches can be a very beneficial business investment.
• Being self-employed comes with a myriad of different responsibilities you need to be aware of
• Know yourself - if you find leadership difficult, you may be more productive as a sole trader
• Respect the different ways in which you can learn about yourself and your abilities
• When it comes to pricing, know your own value
• Don’t be afraid of trying something new and if you have a good idea, go for it
• Try not to procrastinate, be efficient with your time 
• Remember the fragile things are: family, health, friends and spirit.  Work is robust and will bounce without causing lasting damage
• Create your own priority tree and make sure you work out what you value above work
• Set aside an uninterrupted hour or more every day with no social media or email - this will make you far more productive
• Be ok with walking away from your business or role if you know you’re better placed working in a different way

If you’d like to contact Robin, he can be reached on [email protected]

Head over to Speakpipe to leave your voice note for future guests too.

Links:

• LastPass the password keeping site that syncs between devices. 
• Google Workspace is brilliant for small businesses
• I use Buzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directory to create this podcast series as well as their super simple hosting platform.
• Canva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.
• For contracts check out Law Depot.

Thank you for listening.  I would also be delighted if you could rate, review and share this podcast with anyone else who may be starting a company as it helps other people find it. 

Hosted by Juliet Fallowfield, founder of PR for startups advisory Fallow, Field & Mason, How To Start Up hopes to bring you confidence, encouragement and reassurance that you’re on the right track.

Recorded, hosted and produced by Juliet Fallowfield in December 2020, edited by Emma Dewhurst & published in January 2021.
MUSIC CREDIT  Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link & Licence

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