Six Lessons for Business Success
It’s hard to believe that six years ago marks the beginning of Sparrowly Group. Whilst there have been plenty of incredible moments, there have equally been plenty of learnings. So, to kick off this special sixth birthday edition, Sparrowly Group’s Founder and Managing Director, Giovanna Lever has compiled my six learnings as a business owner which can be applied to work and life in general.
1. If you don’t back yourself, nobody will.
When I was first thinking about going out on my own, I had lots of coffee meetings to get advice. Speaking to your network is something I recommend doing and it’s important that you go to people who will be brutally honest with you. I did that and the advice wasn’t always positive but what it did help me to do was to get clear on what I wanted Sparrowly Group to be and what I didn’t want it to be. This included getting very clear on the company values and to make a commitment to them. It's only when you're clear on your value proposition and values that you can back yourself no matter what challenges you face.
2. Be prepared for the worst.
If last year was anything to go by, it’s a slippery slope if your business is not prepared for the worst. And for a small business like ours, this means cash flow. Cash flow management has always been a big focus for Sparrowly Group, a skill I learned from helping my parents with the bookkeeping as a teenager in our family agribusiness. If you know agriculture, it can ebb and flow with regards to revenues and you need to be ready to take the bad with the good. Same with a consulting practice. Having a healthy cash flow meant that no one in the team had to take reduced hours (in fact some of the team took on extra paid hours) or reduced salary. This remains the case whilst we navigate the constant changes from COVID. This is no mean feat for a small business to achieve in a year like last, but cash flow is something that is vital for every business to be on top of, regardless of size.
3. You are never too big for your boots.
We have an incredible client base working on exciting programs of work across such diverse industries but one thing is certain, we eat humble pie, every day and believe in being generous in spirit. If someone reaches out to you looking to meet for a coffee or get some advice, do it, without expectation of anything in return. All I ask of that person I meet with is that they pay it forward. Try it, you might make someone's day and one day, you might need help.
4. Always be honest.
It may not be the popular choice, but if you're honest, can back it up with evidence, and deliver with care and empathy, you're showing up with integrity. Integrity is critical in life and when that integrity is compromised it builds up like a storm inside you and clouds your business and personal judgment.
5. It's okay to say no.
I’ve learned this the hard way and I'm still learning because I want to help everyone, and whilst this is important, it’s important that you set boundaries so that you don’t end up working for free. Placing value on your expertise you bring to the table is vital. Understanding the budget is important so that you can consider how you can best add value for money, but don’t feel that you should have to discount your offering.
6. Lift others up around you.
Sparrowly Group wouldn’t be where it is today without my amazing team. It’s important to give those in your team the opportunity to shine and where they need support, the tools to learn. The business isn’t about me, it’s about the group of individuals - the smart sparrows that come together to collaborate and do great work. It’s about acknowledging them and giving them opportunities to constantly grow in an environment that respects them.
