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13 Oct 2005 09:53:29
A photographer from St Albans has been speaking about how a series of free business workshops has helped him to successfully expand his business.
Steve Shipman was keen to grow his photography business but was worried about taking it on alone, so turned to the University of Luton’s Business Skills team for advice.
Steve, who has photographed politicians such as Tony Blair, and celebrities like Keanu Reeves, and French and Saunders, said: “I was inundated with enquiries to do family portraits but I really wasn’t sure how to address this new market.”
He and his marketing partner and wife, Amanda, joined the University of Luton’s Business Skills workshops which cover a range of topics including finance, effective sales and customer care, marketing and effective teamworking leadership.
The workshops are designed to provide a short intensive overview of various business-related topics, as well as providing practical ideas and advice. Funded by the European Social Fund (ESF), they improve local companies’ competitiveness and to help the development needs of individuals employed by local small to medium sized companies in Hertfordshire.
Steve and Amanda are delighted with what they have learned. Steve said: “The workshops have broadened the way we look at our market and what we have to offer as a product. We’re responding better to customer enquiries and altering our marketing approach.”
Amanda added: “The programme has helped us to update and streamline our three websites, and we have started a folder to analyse each job, track costs incurred, record marketing hits and clients’ initial purchase and subsequent purchase information.”
Steve and Amanda have signed up to take part in further workshops and are encouraging other small firms to attend the workshops. Steve said: “It’s been a refreshing experience and has helped move our business forward.”
To find out more about the University of Luton’s Business Skills programme, contact Hannah Rees on 01582 489042 or e-mail hannah.rees@luton.ac.uk. Alternatively, visit www.businessworkshops.org.uk.
Latest news» 2005» Oct» Business Skills Helps Photography Firm Move on up
