From Precious
May, 2010
Uchechi Eke | www.clementinesuk.com
Uchechi is Managing Director and Principal Consultant at Clementines UK Ltd, a London based Management Consultancy firm
Precious: Did you always want to be a business woman?
Quite simply No! However, I found myself providing business advice to start up and new businesses in my various working roles. My twin brother ran a successful graphic design company for over 10 years, but I was never drawn to self-employment, until I was head-hunted by the Princes Trust to work with marginalised young people. Part of my remit involved supporting individuals to set up their own businesses (as many were ex-offenders). I realised I had a natural ability in this area and thus, after an extended period of soul searching and much prayerful consideration, I accepted the call and launched Clementines UK in July 2007.
Precious: When did you come up with your business idea?
Having worked for a number of key public sector stakeholders, notably, Business
Link and the London Development Agency, I was constantly approached to provide
ad hoc business support. Over a period of time, my clientele grew and the
demand for my services propelled me to consult companies on a freelance basis.
Hence, I delivered one-to-one consultancy services to start up, new and established
businesses using my existing networks.
Precious: Tell us about the business planning stage
I am quite resourceful, practical and think well on my feet. So, I purchased
a number of books, attended seminars and workshops, subscribed to a host
of business publications and gleaned a lot of my business acumen from other
successful business owners in my field, in addition to sourcing mentors to
be on hand to advise and guide me..
Precious: Did you have any formal business training?
No. However, consulting has exposed me to the business environment, and the many
business leaders/mentors/owners I have worked with and learnt from, provided
invaluable hands-on and informal training, which has been very effective.
Hence, in the absence of theoretical training, I have undertaken practical
business training..
Precious: How do you work on making your business grow?
The key to business growth lies in understanding your product/service, having a consistent brand identity and being prepared for changes within the wider business environment. You must know your market, and thoroughly understand the needs of your clients and meet those needs utilising and exploiting the best resources available. I always endorse on-going education and training. You can never know too much about your business. I also advocate becoming a member of a number of professional bodies, network wisely and ensure your brand is visible in the market place.
Precious: Has your business developed in the the way you thought it would?
Yes it has, as referrals are constant and demand for my services is high. However, Management Consultancy is difficult because you work within the ‘knowledge economy’. Clients need to trust your ability to deliver based totally on your skill set, knowledge and experience. The results are not always instant and you may need to work with a client for a number of weeks or months.
Precious: What's been the most exciting event in your business life so far?
I would have to say writing bids through open and competitive procurement,
and hearing from the client that the bid for funding has been awarded. Currently,
my success ratio is 90%. When you work with a client to produce a bid or
tender it is very exciting, but requires a lot of discipline, time management
and attention to detail. However, when the outcome is positive and the client
has secured significant funds to develop their business, or to change the
direction of their company or invest in new technologies, the hard work is
definitely
worth it.
Precious: How do you see your business progressing over the next five years?
Ideally, I would like to have a number of Associate Consultants working
for the company, with skills that not only compliment the services we offer
but lead to creating new streams of work. I would love to work abroad, especially
in Africa where the principles of project management, capacity building,
bid writing and business governance and protocol is needed..
Precious: How do you achieve the work/life balance?
I have a very supportive husband! With an 8 month old baby, I have learnt to
work smart not hard and rest when required.
Precious: How have your family and friends supported you?
My family has always shown such incredible support towards my business endeavours,
especially my twin brother and my husband. Moreover, having key advisors
and mentors close has led to multi lateral decision making and the freedom
to personally develop.
Precious: Aside from Precious, do you belong to any networking groups?
Yes. The
London Business Network, LinkedIn and E-Academy
Precious: What's your advice to potential female entrepreneurs?
Always believe in yourself. Confidence is key and will place you in good stead.
Learn how to articulate your product or service succinctly. If you can sell
your business with passion and with great diction, people will remember you!.
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