McCormick Accounting Ltd

The aims and requirements of applicants to our service are expertly matched to one of our mentors, each of whom offer close and confidential 1:1 support. Liz McCormick first applied for a mentor in January 2019. Liz’s story (written in her own words) highlights that a mentor provides the guidance and support for you to make your own decisions, and that they will be there through all the twist and turns of life that contribute to shaping them. This very personal testimonial also illustrates the level of commitment you can expect from your mentor. If you would prefer to watch a recorded discussion with Liz please watch the video below!

Finding Dorset Business Mentors

I found the Dorset Business Mentors program through an advert on Facebook for a ‘Taste of Mentoring’ session being run in Wareham. At the time I was employed running a satellite office of a mid-sized accountancy practice with over 300 clients and 7 staff. I had no guidance or mentoring from the head office and was trying to grow the business and improve productivity and profitability.

I applied for a mentor who could help me with marketing and would hold me to account.  I was matched with volunteer mentor David Barker, who does that and much more!

First Meeting

In our first meeting David brought me right back to basics asking for a business plan.  This is what I expect from my clients and yet I did not have one, but it made me realise how much I help I needed.

Chapter 1

I worked hard with David at producing a budget, a stretch budget and a strategy for success. 

We made enormous progress and the business began to take off again.  The turnover grew by 20% and the team were motivated and enthused.  David’s skill at directing my energy made an enormous difference.  However, and in due course, I decided on a change of personal direction.

Chapter 2

David then had to refocus his efforts and put me on track to identify my skills and opportunities.   We worked out how I could create a hopefully successful business as a self-employed accountant focussing on a personal service and support for my clients not just year-end accounts and tax returns.

Chapter 4

So, back to business plans and stretch budgets and the biggest question of all…What will success look like? Is this to be a lifestyle business or a business that grows? That decision at the outset has changed the investment strategy for software, computers and funding.

Where I am now

Without that mentoring and support the transition later down the line would be expensive and difficult. I feel confident and believe I have something to offer.  David has been instrumental in bringing that out of me despite some challenging times.

Recommendation

I have recommended the Dorset Business Mentors service to many, many of my clients in business. 

The expertise and time donated by the mentors is worth so much emotionally and financially I think everyone in business should seek this help!

Conclusion

Just do it! Sign up today.

Dorset Business Mentors is a part-funded program operating as a not-for-profit program. All mentors volunteer their time, giving business owners the benefit of their experience without charge. Consequently, all we ask is a contribution of £200+VAT towards our administration costs, in return for up to 12 months 1:1 support from a mentor matched to each business owner’s goals and needs. Currently, we are offering 3 months free of charge without any obligation to renew. Please complete the application form HERE.