With over 30 years’ experience in marketing and more than 15 in starting and running a small business, Karen and The Happies have helped hundreds of businesses improve their marketing. Now she’s happily doing it for Boost’s Growth Mentoring Programme.
Our Chief Happy Karen Lambert has been mentoring Lancashire businesses through boost, Lancashire’s Business Growth Hub Mentoring programme since 2019. Having had a long and fulfilling career in marketing Karen wanted to give something back and share her knowledge with others to help them in whatever way she can. This is particularly poignant now, at a time when things are really tough for small businesses.
I am lucky to have had a long and fulfilling career in marketing, and equally lucky to have experienced the highs and lows of running a small business. I wanted to give back and share that knowledge with other Lancashire businesses to help them in whatever way I can.
That I run a successful business means that I am seen as a peer, someone who they can share the unique experience running a business brings.
By listening. When I’m mentoring, I assume nothing, I ask questions and really listen to what’s being said. And what isn’t. That way we get to the heart of any issues, challenges and opportunities, and we work together from there. As an extra experienced ‘head’, I am able to offer a different perspective, independent views, and honest advice.
My areas of expertise are marketing, branding and running a business. Many small businesses need a helping hand with their marketing. Understanding the most effective way to meet their goals – whether that’s to acquire or retain customers, raise awareness or generate enquiries – really helps a business grow.
Inspirational moments come from the leaders themselves. It’s definitely a two-way relationship. In every mentoring relationship I’ve had, I’ve been inspired, whether that’s with their story, the challenges they have overcome, their passion for making the world a better place, or sharing their incredible skills.
I speak to many companies, and one of the challenges that comes up again and again is customer acquisition. Plot that against an ever changing landscape and that presents both challenge and opportunity.
In the last 12 months there has been an exponential shift to online / digital marketing and feeling confident to market their business on this channel is where many companies are asking for help.
In my opinion, it’s relationships with people that are everything to successful growth.
You can see the original interview here
Would you benefit from mentoring support to help grow your Lancashire business? Call 0800 488 0057 or visit www.boostbusinesslancashire.co.uk to start your growth conversation.
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