Partner Article

Top tips for entrepreneurs

Flexibility, freedom – running your own business is an attractive option for many. Jenni Dunman, a former Metropolitan police officer who runs Daisy First Aid, a first aid franchise for parents offers her top tips for those looking to branch out on their own in 2016.

1.The inspiration for your business can take many forms.

After a 15 year career in the police, I decided to start my own business. The question was – what type of business? One day I was in a coffee shop with a friend when her daughter started to choke. Mum panicked and didn’t know what to do, so I stepped in. This was the light bulb moment for me: the realisation that many parents do not have the first aid knowledge to potentially save their child’s life. The idea behind my business was born.

2.Stick to what you believe in

My former role with the Met Police provided me with a wide range of first aid experience. I think treating casualties at London’s Edgware Road tube station in the London bombings in 2005 was my biggest challenge. I learnt that even basic first aid can absolutely save lives and believe that everyone should learn this essential skill.

3.Be clear on what makes you different

To hone down the USP of my business, I put myself in the shoes of my customers. As a parent, I would want to learn the essentials of first aid – and fast – but without being scared by any horror stories or gory pictures! The first aid classes my business delivers are designed especially for parents, and aim to give them essential knowledge without the fear factor.

4.Enjoy the hard work!

Setting up a business has been a huge learning experience and continues to be. I have worked harder and longer than I ever imagined – juggling my family commitments along the way. I have encountered many hurdles, but can honestly say I have loved every minute of it!

5.Be open to possibilities

Within the first year of running Daisy First Aid classes for parents in my local area I was inundated with enquiries from across the wider region and beyond. Although I loved delivering the classes, I realised that in order to meet demand I would need to offer other people the chance to manage and deliver the classes. I looked into options and chose franchising as the best route to expansion. One year and 21 franchisees later, I’ve been able to grow the company and plan to recruit further franchisees in the year ahead.

For more details visit www.daisyfirstaid.com

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Emma Ward .