How I met Dee
I met Dee, through a recommendation from a friend of mine who is also a client of hers. I had been running a photography business alongside my core career as a teacher for some years. The Covid pandemic made me question my lifestyle and realise I needed to do what I loved, photography.
So I called Dee and we had a Zoom coffee. I instantly knew that she knew her stuff and would be there for me to help me on my journey to go full time into my photography business.
Working with Dee
Dee is amazing. She has such a breadth of knowledge and experience that she can apply to any business. She can quickly understand specific market sectors and what can influence growth within them, helping to shape business plans and growth strategies.
The first thing we did, in our first session was to write my business plan. This is not something I am comfortable with, however Dee made it easy. During the session she asked many questions, we chatted, she challenged and without me even realising she was taking notes and creating the business plan. How her mind can work like that I do not know… but it does. She chats, thinks, challenges, takes notes and then with the click of a button shares her screen and shows a business plan bespoke to my business, along with clear action plans.
From there, Dee would always say ‘the devil is in the detail’ and from one session to the next we would tackle core strategies and action plans. From creating branding, to packages, to pricing structures and more. She would help me to develop these. Working with her is easy as not only is she so approachable, but she clearly knows her stuff. That being said, she will not hold back and will say if she does not agree with an idea or decision and will always hold me accountable for delivering actions in between sessions.
I have now been working with Dee for six months, and she is like a partner to me in my business. She gets involved with everything and I can truly say she has given me great support throughout.
Benefits realised
Since working with Dee, we have:
- Financial results. For Dee, ‘numbers tell a story’. I have surpassed my original year 1 target. This is absolutely mind blowing for me. And I know with her help, so much more is yet to come.
- Been kept accountable. There is no hiding with Dee. Every session, notes are taken, action plans written and on a regular basis throughout the month, they are chased and reviewed to ensure we are on track.
- Focus and decision making. It is tough being a business owner. Knowing what to do, when and why. Dee helps us to see the wood from the trees which gives clarity and focus enabling our decision making.
- Improved wellbeing. With all of this put together, there is a definite reduction in stress and overall improved wellbeing. I know I can message Dee at any time for support and nothing is too much trouble.
Overall
It doesn’t matter what size your business is. I am a startup and I know she gives me the same quality of support she gives to her larger clients. If you are ready to grow, ready to step outside of your comfort zone, knowing she is there to help, then call Dee. I honestly would not have had the success I have had without her help, support, guidance, knowledge and honesty. It really will transform your business, and your own business confidence.
Fiona Middleton
Fiona Millington Photography
https://www.fionamillingtonphotography.com/
