Success stories
Patrick Hamill
I combined experience with new skills to improve my future.
After a long career in the textiles industry I was ready to learn new skills and do something different. I went to university and studied IT, business, economics and law. My working experience and the fresh confidence I’d gained through my studies led me to consider setting up a corporate analysis business.
Why did you want to start your own business?
I was made redundant in 2005. My career had been in the textiles industry, spotting problems and delivering improvements. I didn’t want to waste all that experience but I was also determined to learn new skills and do something different. I went back to university and graduated with a 2:1 in Law.
What was the deciding factor for you?
I got my degree but to qualify as a solicitor I would have needed to take another expensive course. I couldn’t justify the expense as there was no guarantee of employment. It was time for a rethink. My working experience and the fresh confidence I’d gained through my studies led me to consider setting up a corporate analysis business.
How did you get the business off the ground?
My first move was to contact No Limits Get Set. I met up with a dedicated advisor four times. He helped me to access a grant and made some really helpful suggestions on how to advertise my new service. I really valued the help he gave me.
Best bits about working for yourself?
The best thing about working for yourself is that you’re not tied down to restrictive working hours. I can arrange consultations at any time of the day to suit my clients’ needs. In addition, if a client requires me to oversee a night-shift there are no restrictions there either. In providing total flexibility, I can offer a better service for my clients - it's more personal.
What have been the biggest challenges so far?
For me, the biggest challenge was making that initial decision to change my own future. It was scary but well worth it. I received a £2,500 grant from No Limits, which paid for advertising and professional indemnity insurance, as well as going towards a laptop. That relatively small bit of capital ignited my business idea.
What would you have done differently if you could go back?
I'm a person who doesn't like looking back. Time spent dwelling on the past is time wasted. However, if I were to do something differently given a second chance - I'd have set my business up sooner as I genuinely feel I could have helped more businesses.
How does it feel to be your own boss?
It’s been a total life change. I work from home in Darwen, visiting businesses, looking at how they work and making recommendations about where they can improve processes, direct funds to be more effective and efficient. The flexible nature of my business means I’ve been able to keep on a part-time job while I build a strong customer base.
Finally, a piece of advice for those thinking about starting up?
Definitely get in touch with the No Limits team.
