Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kate Temple-Brown, Co-Founder of The Opportunity Group, located in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

The Opportunity Group is a talent consultancy and a registered skills provider. We deliver human and technical skills programmes to improve people's lives and help them to get family-supporting careers.

Tell us about yourself

My background is in Financial Services recruitment and development. After working for 17 years in the city, I left to become the translator for companies to understand how to maximize government funding and development to find new talent from places they would not have thought of, as well as develop their existing employees to prepare for the future of work and support the business strategy. The impact of brilliant and relevant development on people's lives is what motivates me to support more employers and people from all walks of life.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

To see how we have changed people's lives, gaining confidence and relevant skills to succeed in their roles or get a promotion is my biggest accomplishment. We believe talent is distributed evenly, but opportunity is not, so anything we can do to widen the opportunity for people from underserved communities is wonderful.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Seeing how many companies would benefit from hiring and supporting different populations of people but not having the long-term vision to see the project through is hard and frustrating for me. We spend much of our time educating and supporting decision-makers to see the benefit of supporting a wider population and take time to develop them. The uncertain labour markets and financial landscape have not helped with future planning either.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Be really clear on your mission - it will be what keeps you focused when you are exhausted and not bringing in the cash you thought you would be.
  2. Don't do it alone - I am very fortunate to have a like-minded co-founder who I can rant and celebrate with. If you don't have a co-founder, find a mentor or fellow entrepreneur who will understand you.
  3. Delegate the small things as soon as you can - Spending your time doing every small admin task will prevent you from growing. as soon as you can afford it, hire help so that you can continue to focus on brand, sales, strategy, and growth. Pay them before you pay yourself if you have to. It will be a great investment.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://theopportunity.global/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOpportunity.global
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seetheopportunity/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheOpp_Group
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/theopportunitygroup/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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