Business Link in Dorset has launched a new start-up service aimed specifically at women who have just launched their own businesses or are interested in starting one. The first one-day course recently took place in Bournemouth and was a resounding success.

Delivered under the title ‘Is it for Me?’, the events will help would-be entrepreneurs understand the key issues involved in launching and running a successful business and guide them through the basics, from developing an idea and drafting a business plan, to marketing themselves and their products or services.

The next events will be taking place on 22 October in Durweston and on 13 November in Bournemouth.

Despite the recession there has been no slow-down in the number of people starting businesses. However many are unsure how to go about starting up and are unaware of some of the pitfalls they could face. As well as looking at some of the ground rules of running a business, the course also has a strong focus on building confidence as well as signposting to other support aimed at women.

Ian Girling, Business Link’s operations manager in Dorset, said: “There are so many questions that people need to ask themselves ahead of launching their new business, as self-employment doesn’t suit everyone.

“These workshops look at the brass tacks of starting and running a business – from the lifestyle choices you need to make to building up your confidence and developing your idea.”

The day-long workshops begin by looking at delegates’ aims and aspirations as well as the alternatives to self-employment.

The sessions then tackle issues such as what it takes to run a successful business and how to develop an idea into a fully-fledged business, before looking at the pros and cons of running your own business, including balancing the pluses such as independence, control, flexibility and choice, against the minuses, including the prospect of long hours, hard work, greater responsibility and potential impact on relationships.

Writing a business plan, goal setting and marketing the business are then looked at in greater detail.

Among the comments from delegates attending the recent business awareness workshop for women in Bournemouth were: “I really got a lot out of today. I made lots of friends and feel a lot more confident in myself” and “It was a friendly environment and I learned a lot. It was very positive, helpful and encouraging.”

The training at this workshop was delivered by coach Lisa Pierson, who said: “It is rewarding to help people understand how they can bring their business idea to life, inspiring them to progress and grow. We have an exceptional number of talented and determined ladies in this area.”

Ian Girling added:  “The one-day workshops have already proved very useful to the women who have attended, so we are pleased to be able to offer them across Dorset.

“These events will give women all the information they need to help them make an informed decision on whether self employment is for them.”

To Book or for further information, please call 0845 600 9966

Pictured with the delegates at Business Link’s first ‘Is it for me?’ event in Bournemouth, are coach Lisa Pierson (centre left) and Business Link adviser Jane Hickman (centre right).