Each month in the Resolve Newsletter we will be showcasing either a client’s company or a company that we work with on a regular basis. If the lockdown has taught us anything it is that we need to support small businesses and so we thought we could do this by showcasing a different company each month. This month we caught up with Simon Dowe from Simon Dowe Associates who helps third sector organisations change fear and failure into opportunity. He specialises in Interim Chief Executive posts of between six to 12 months preparing organisations for their next permanent CEO or if appropriate for a merger or closer partnership working. Alongside this he also works on specific project management roles around change management.
What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
I thrive on the variety that running my own business brings to me and the opportunity it gives me to share good practice across the sector. There is also a very special sense of achievement when you complete a project and know that you are leaving an organisation in a great place to continue serving their client group for many years to come.
One of the downsides for me is the anxiety around securing contracts, I am happy to say that this has never been a problem for me, but the anxiety never leaves me. I imagine it is the same feeling you have when driving an electric car and the battery warning light comes on – you know you can make it to the next charging station but still feel anxious for that last piece of the journey.
What advice would you give to other individuals thinking of starting their own business?
Only do it because you love it and know what makes you different to everyone else.
Don’t ever be tempted to dilute your offer, stay focused on your core skill.
What lessons have you learnt over the years of running your own business?
Six months is a very short period of time to get anything done.
How has your company had to adapt during the 2020 pandemic?
I have had to change the way that I work with a Senior Management Team. I started a new Interim CEO role in Wiltshire working remotely in Hove. I met some of my SMT in person for the first time after nearly six months in the role. People can be very different when you meet them in person!
How do you ensure a work / life balance?
I don’t, but I do try and maintain a thriving and surviving balance by only working in sectors that I feel passionately about.
What are the values that drive you?
Honesty, passion and respect have to be central to all I do. I always tell my clients that I need them to tell me everything, warts and all, as I hate surprises. You can’t strategise for something you don’t know about.
What is the one piece of advice you always give to clients/customers?
There is no bigger risk to the future of your organisation than a fear of taking risks.
To find out more about Simon Dowe Associates, email simondowe@me.com or call 07826 012730.
If you would like to be included in our monthly company showcase, then please get in touch.
Our other company showcases can be found here: Gladiator Events, Stone Survey Ltd, Vision Properties Weybridge, Adam Richards Magic, The Happy Startup School, Forevergreen, Bug Animations Ltd, Home Transformations, And So She Thinks, Plain Sailing Removals.