Mentoring provides valuable coaching and practical support for business founder

Coming from in-house corporate roles in digital marketing, Carys Dorritt was well versed in digital marketing, but knew that she wanted to find additional support to help her establish and scale her business, The Polka.

Having searched for business resources on the web, Carys found Buckinghamshire Business First (BBF). She quickly made the most of the practical support on offer and a business support advice session led to her being introduced to BBF’s Mentoring Programme, which offers external input from a fellow business owner.

After being matched with local businesswoman Rachel Rice, the two have met up virtually and in person several times. Each session covers anything from managing clients to growing a team, and much more.

“Each session feels like a light-hearted conversation with a fellow woman in business," says Carys. "Every time, the conversation has been full of practical gems and actionable advice, giving me the accountability to scale my business.

“I come to every meeting with a list of questions that I want to ask, and this organic approach is really refreshing.”

Carys has found it to be very powerful having that connection with a fellow businesswoman to bounce ideas off and sense check challenges with. It has been a massive boost for her to be able to discuss a business problem with an objective professional in a safe space where no question is considered silly.

“I feel really fortunate to have secured a place on this programme,” says Carys. “It has provided a ray of light, and having that support over the last year has been hugely beneficial."

The Buckinghamshire Business First Mentoring Programme has had a positive impact on the business both in terms of mindset and setting practical foundations for further growth, such as with The Polka’s systems and processes. Carys’s mentor has guided her towards which systems to set up and which organisations to get involved with.

The business is expanding, providing its digital marketing services including coaching, digital marketing strategies, social media, paid ads and content marketing to even more small businesses and charities.

The team is growing and building out new services, while Carys hopes to continue working with BBF and their Mentor Programme and make the most of the face-to-face networking opportunities offered by the organisation.

“We know that running a business can be lonely, which is why our Mentoring Programme connects business owners who need practical and emotional support with other business owners who can provide exactly that.” – The Buckinghamshire Business First Growth Team

Maximise your potential with our Mentoring Programme

Our Mentoring Programme connects businesses with experienced mentors that can help them develop their skills and performance.

The mentors are experienced in sectors ranging from technology and space to retail and manufacturing.

Apply now for proactive support with your business challenges and to help your business reach the next level.