Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in music education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with James Ledley, Owner of JLG Tuition, located in Craigavon, Co Armagh
Northern Ireland.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a full-time Guitar, Ukulele, and Bass Tutor. I teach beginners right up to advanced players from ages 7 to 70 years old. I can also take students through their exams if they wish, or if they just want to learn their favorite music, that's fine too.
Tell us about yourself
I first got into music by playing the drums when I was 15 years old, and I started to learn Guitar at the same time. We had a band in school, and the big aim was to play live and get gigs. I then moved to Bass Guitar and finally settled on Guitar. So I've been playing Guitar for over 35 years and teaching now since 2003.
I love helping to pass on the gift of music, and in the last two years, I've decided to record some online teaching programs and spread the joy of music around the world. I have students from the USA, Australia, Canada, England, Scotland, and Ireland.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think this must be taking the plunge to decide to go self-employed and then sticking with it to build up a successful teaching practice in my hometown and then deciding to expand that to online lessons and around the rest of the world.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest thing for sure is the uncertainty. Even now, I sometimes struggle with worrying about bills, and when students pull out of private lessons, it's a worry though I've been very fortunate that since day 1, I have had students fill empty slots fairly quickly and got back up to speed again.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- I would say to go for it - it's not easy, I'll be honest.
- Be wise with a backup plan (i.e., finances), especially at the start.
- Don't let the worry of "IF" hold you back - if it wants you really want and doesn't do it - later in life, you'll regret it. I couldn't face that "what if" situation. I had to go for it! I was petrified about leaving a steady job in Admin that was very well paid. I left in 2006. That was my biggest worry. But a plus is there is nothing like taking command of your business and your life, and while daunting sometimes, YOU decide how it pans out - no boss breathing down your neck telling you what you can and can't do.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.jlgtuition.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.ledley/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesguitarandukelessons/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JlgGuitar
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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