Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in general services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with George Tanner, founder of Simplify By George, located in Kingston, Surrey, UK.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a Professional Organiser, and I help people declutter and organize their homes. My customers are busy working mothers (who I am always inspired by) who like to use what time they have with their family. I not only helped them to spend more of their energy and focus on the things they care about most - be it, family, work, or themselves - but also helped to simplify their lives, reducing stress and clutter.
Tell us about yourself
My career has spanned various roles within project management and operations. So always a focus on organization and problem solving - in 2019, after 20 years working as a senior professional in both the public and private sectors. I decided I needed to not only find a better balance for myself, but I also wanted to find ways to help people genuinely, so I started my own business, using my skills to help others. I love what I do, I get a lot of satisfaction being able to bring organization and calm to an environment, and the impact on the lives of the women I work with is immense.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I started my business about six months before the pandemic hit. My service involved me going into homes, which meant I could not continue to work. I took the opportunity to concentrate on building a social presence and trying to diversify my offering to work in the virtual space. I learned a lot about pivoting in my first year!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Being everyone, marketing, sales, accounts, etc. There are some roles I enjoy, some I can do, and some I do anything to avoid (but it is not possible!). I am lucky to have found other business owners to check in regularly, which helps tremendously when something is challenging.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
My first tip would be to just do it! I thought about starting this business ten years ago but was too scared. I kept thinking, 'what if?'. Now I wish I had just taken the leap. Then I would say find your tribe, people who are running their own business, get ideas, help, support and have someone there to talk to. It can be lonely. And finally, enjoy it. It can seem overwhelming and like you are always 'on,' but if you love what you do, none of that seems to matter. I could not imagine working for anyone else again!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
In the past two years, I have done so much. I even wrote a book which is something I had never imagined I would do. Trust our instincts and do it!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.simplifybygeorge.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplifybygeorge
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplifybygeorge/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.