Email to a FriendTo celebrate International Women's Day 2022 we are shining a light on our fabulous members and their stories.
Each and every single one of them has an inspiring story about starting their own business. So read on to find out more.
Kerry Bristol-Fenelon, owner of Kerry Social Media
What first drew you to starting your business?
What first drew me to start my social media management was its ability to connect businesses with their customers in a new way. Companies could build relationships with their customers through social media and create a two-way communication channel. This was something that really appealed to me and convinced me to start my own business.
I knew that businesses were starting to realize the importance of social media, and I thought that I could help them grow their online presence. So I started pitching my services to networking groups and local businesses.
I love running my own social media manager business; it is still in the early stages, it has been a lot of work, but it's been worth it!
What is the best thing about being your own boss?
There are many things I love about being my boss as a social media manager. First, I get to call the shots and set my hours for starters. Second, I can work from home in my comfortable clothing and work anywhere I chose. Third, I can take if I want a midday break for a walk. But, most importantly, I get to be there even more for my daughters.
What's your advice to other women going into business?
When I was starting my career, I was given a lot of advice by outstanding businesswomen, especially my mentor, which I have put into good use, and it has helped me progress. Now that I'm a little further along, the advice I would pass would be to be confident in yourself and your abilities. Too often, we doubt ourselves and let others bring us down. But remember, you're just as capable as anyone else – maybe even more so! So, own your accomplishments, and don't be afraid to speak up.
Second, find a mentor or a community of like-minded people who can help, support and guide you through your career journey. Asking for help is never a sign of weakness – it's a sign of strength.
What is your top tip for success?
Believe in yourself. If you don't believe in yourself, no one else will. You must be confident in your abilities and know that you can achieve anything you set your mind to.
Tell us something about yourself we might not expect?
As a social media manager business owner, I'm often in charge of creating new and interesting content to share with our followers. But sometimes, it's nice to take a break from work and share something about myself.
I'm currently juggling my business with my 9-5. I've been doing so for months; even though I have found it rewarding working for the NHS, I wanted to explore more opportunities. So, I started researching and discovered social media management as a career. It was perfect for me because it allowed me to use my skills while also being creative and interactive. And, best of all, it's allowed me to work from home so that I can still be there for my husband and kids.