Suffolk b2b Mentoring Testimonials
Ian Perry - Remedy for business - Chamber Mentor
“Working with Ruth has been enormously rewarding for me personally and she is an inspiration to anyone starting out in business on their own. Her ethical approach to business in these times of Corporate Responsibility is very refreshing to see, and I have been able to learn a lot about the IT support and software industry from her.
I have seen Ruth becoming more confident with the financial and strategic aspects of running a business and that has allowed her to plan how and when to recruit skilled technical staff in order to grow the business in a sustained manner. Seeing someone develop as a person has got to be one of the many benefits of becoming a mentor. It has been a privilege to be part of the Suffolk b2b Mentoring Scheme and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to put something back into the business community”.
Ian Perry
T. 01473 310833
E. ian@remedyforbusiness.com
Ruth Cheesley – Virya Technologies – Chamber Mentee
“I approached the Chamber of Commerce as I was at a stage in growing my business when I needed advice from somebody who had ‘been there and done that’ - to bounce around ideas for growing the business, talk about my thoughts for how to improve what we already do, and learn from somebody with experience.
I was paired up with Ian Perry as my mentor, which gave me motivation to work ‘on the business’ and also had the advantage another person looking into the company from the outside. I have found that since starting the mentoring programme I have become much more comfortable with core areas of the business like managing my book-keeping and appreciating how important it is to being able to forecast and identify areas where we could be more efficient. It has also been very useful to be able to discuss potential ideas for expansion and have somebody with experience help me work through them.”
Ruth Cheesley
T. 0845 003 7235
E. info@viryatechnologies.com
Christine Lock – CPW Computing Ltd - Chamber Mentor
“Even with a busy day, it’s amazing just how easy it is to find the time to mentor! With Ross, we not only met up occasionally but ran things by each other via phone, text or email…at the end of the day we both have businesses to run, so both did what we could, when we could. All very flexible and easy really!
Mentoring wasn’t a demanding process but kept me on my toes due to the many questions and ideas that Ross had and wanted to share! Consequently I found the whole process exhilarating and very motivating, I felt energised and the process helped focus my attention on CPW’s sales & marketing processes, product and service opportunities, PR, Awards, etc., etc.
Mentoring isn’t just a one way street, its very much a ‘win win’ situation as both parties benefit from the new business relationship in many ways, including actually doing business together and the referral of leads being exchanged!
I would fully endorse this worthwhile programme and would be delighted to discuss the matter further with any other interested party.”
Ross Dean – Ross Dean Photography - Chamber Mentee
“As a new business, it's so important to surround yourself with proactive, likeminded people. In the early days I found networking events helped me to achieve just that, but what I really needed was to 'check in' with someone every now and then to hold me accountable to my goals, bounce off ideas and to just be there to celebrate my achievements and guide me through my challenges.
The EEP Mentoring programme from Suffolk Chamber was able to team me up Christine Lock of CPW Computing and through this, has really empowered me to achieve a lot more than I think I would have done going it alone. The agreement is that we meet regularly and use the session however we think will benefit where I currently am. It may be marketing; lead generation or branding that’s the order of the day, but whatever we choose there is always a measurable goal at the end to ensure the time is spent wisely. Christine is also so kind as to be on the end of the phone or email when I need her, which really gives me peace of mind in those moments where you need it most.
I would highly recommend new businesses getting on board with the scheme as it really boosts your confidence, offers you a credible sounding board and helps you take your business to the next level. Thank you EEP and especially Christine, it really is a partnership I hold dearly.
Ross Dean is the principal photographer and owner of ‘Ross Dean Photography' (http://www.rossdeanphotography.com & http://www.force9imaging.com)
Christopher Johnson - Meritas International - Chamber Mentor
Christopher, who is Founder Director and CEO of a Consultancy, Mentoring and Coaching Company (www.meritas-international.com) based inSuffolk, speaks of his experience with the programme being very positive and says:
‘This scheme provides real benefit for individuals requiring guidance or advice on starting a company, business or indeed when they are considering changing the direction of a current enterprise. Although I specialise in healthcare, my mentees have come from sectors including public and media relations, not-for-profit, dietary foods consultancy, educational and training and a number of other small businesses. The advice can range from creating a business plan, marketing and business strategy, fund-raising, increasing daily fee rates and general business mentoring and coaching.’
In a number of instances, the mentoring programme has developed into the client asking for additional support and help outside the programme which my Company has been able to provide.
‘I believe strongly in supporting local companies and if I can add value to organisations who will benefit from my skills and experiences then I am fully committed to do so’ adds Christopher.
Christopher is qualified to MBA and DBA level, has twenty five years’ experience in blue chip companies at director level in three continents, is a Trustee with Suffolk Mind, Committee Member of the Suffolk Institute of Directors, A Princes Trust Mentor and acts as visiting lecturer in healthcare atEssexUniversity. He can be contacted via the Suffolk Chamber b2b programme, via his website or at
christopher@meritas-international.com or 07788 203143.
Celia Bird - Hypnotheraphy Associates - Chamber Mentee
Hypnotherapy Associates is an organisation which serves a wide range of people in London and Suffolk, based at Barrack Lane Medical Centre. We help people with the changes they wish to make in their lives, from non-smoking and weight management to phobia and panic attack relief, peformance improvement, through hypnotherapy and neurolnguistic programming.
We are experienced clinical hypnotherapists, trained in Harley St London, who thoroughly enjoy working with people from all walks of life to help them make beneficial changes.
I joined the Suffolk Chamber EEP Scheme about 4 months ago a year ago relaunch our business, through creating a new website and networking with other bsiness people. I am now delighted to be part of the Mentoring Scheme which I joined in order to have one-to-one guidance through the process of the relaunch.
I have found the benefits to my business invaluable as I have made positive connections with many skilled and enthusiastic people, including my mentor, whose ideas and expertise have already been extremely helpful. I intend to continue to contribute to Suffolk Chamber Mentoring events as I believe that I am already seeing the fruits of the connections that I have made so far.
Michael Coe - Dimension Eighty Eight - Chamber Mentee
In 2011 I started my own HR and Training company “Dimension Eighty Eight HR and Training Ltd” Based in Ipswich Suffolk. I have always wanted to run and own my own business and even in a recession it is still a good route into employment. During the setting up of my Business I came across The Suffolk Chamber of commerce at a business meeting. I was so impressed with how helpful the Chamber of commerce representative was because they took the time to understand my new business venture.
During our conversation I was informed about the Enterprise Engagement programme for new small businesses inSuffolk. This was a great opportunity for me to get much needed help and advice for business success.
I had always thought starting up in business was very daunting and lonely but I am pleased to have found out otherwise. Being Part of Suffolk Chamber Enterprise Engagement Programme means help is always at hand and as a business owner you are never on your own!
As part of the programme I have been allocated aMentorto assist me with talking through my business ideas and its development. Mentoring is a great way to meet up with another professional business person to bounce ideas off of and to discuss future plans. My Mentor Mike Southgate ( 4HR Solutions) has been excellent. Mike has really understood my business and also understands me as an individual. I am looking forward to developing my business and being Mentored by Mike.
Michael Coe
Dimension Eighty Eight (registered trademark)
HR and Training Ltd
website: http://www.dimension88.co.uk
email: michael@dimension88.co.uk
Tel: 01473 722888
Charley Lloyd-Grayson - Lloyd Grayson Recruitment - Chamber Mentee
"When I first approached the Chamber I had so many questions and ideas, I could see the final outcome and where my business should be. However, the process and journey to the final destination was a complete conundrum to me. I needed support and guidance, that’s where the Chamber came to the rescue. I applied for a mentor and along came Tony Stockman. Over the last few sessions with Tony I’ve discovered a new outlook on how I relate to my business and how to approach hurdles with a positive outcome. Lloyd-Grayson Recruitment has under gone several changes from its original start up plan. Tony has guided and listened and helped me develop a strong understanding of my business needs. Without the support from Tony I know that I would still be floundering and trying to discover the way forward. I have found his assistance and knowledge invaluable to Lloyd-Grayson Recruitment and myself. Never has a question been left unanswered and never have I lost confidence in Tony as my mentor. I value and greatly appreciate all that Tony has helped me achieve with my business.
"My words of advice to those whom are starting up in business is simply this, I will never regret approaching the Chamber and asking for a little help and support. Becoming a Mentee has positive and beneficial results for myself and I believe that the experience and knowledge I have gained is all down to taking the first step and asking for a helping hand. Thank you Tony and the Chamber."
Tony Stockman
M. 07889 125564
E. tony.stockman@t-centre.co.uk
Charley Lloyd - Grayson
M. 07401 669911
E. charleylloydgrayson@yahoo.co.uk