We support startups in all industries and all over the UK. One such business is our StartUp of the Week, JMH Aspirations. Founder Judith Marples helps teams and individuals to manage their stress and to transform their careers. We caught up with Judith to find out more about her business.
1. Explain your business in thirty seconds or less
I am a corporate specialist in career coaching and stress management who specialises in the development and delivery of bespoke coaching and training programmes designed to manage change effectively, reduce stress, and unlock creativity in individuals and teams in all business environments. Using a unique mix of traditional and non-traditional delivery techniques I work with senior managers and their leaders, providing the essential ingredients for them to continue their transformational success.
2. Where are you based and why is it a good location for your business?
I am based in Keighley in West Yorkshire, near to the borders of North Yorkshire. This is a predominantly rural area which is developing its potential well. We have an increasing number of entrepreneurs; our demographic is diverse, which provides so many different experiences and opportunities for people to celebrate and enjoy. People are proud of their achievements and their heritage and strive to be successful. If I can be part of that journey by helping them to see the wood from the trees as they develop and grow, then my journey also becomes worthwhile.
3. How did you come up with the idea?
I have worked successfully with people in the last few years who were suffering from stress or who have reached a crossroads in their career and need to open their minds to new challenges and opportunities. I also headed a team in my previous employment where something similar was developed, working alongside occupational health, which resulted in the team being finalists in the National Association of Business Psychology awards in 2014 for Excellence in Wellbeing and Excellence in Training. I have seen the strategies and support that I can provide work, which is why I want to bring this to as many people as I can.
4. What stage was your business at when you applied for the Startup Loan?
I applied for the loan at the start of going into full time business in December 2016, with the support of David Gagen from Airedale Enterprise services.
5. How have you used it to grow your business?
I have used the funding to pay for my website, which is currently in development, and to join local networking groups, as well as getting my programmes CPD-accredited.
6. Who is your mentor and how have they helped you?
Penny Wing is my Virgin Start Up mentor. She is providing invaluable support around marketing and promoting my business, and she has a font of knowledge and experience which she generously shares with me.
7. Biggest achievement so far?
My biggest achievement so far is learning to network, something I have not done before. Being part of a group of other businesses in the area working together to bring each other business to develop and grow our success is inspiring. When you work on your own it can be a lonely experience, but building networks with others, learning about their businesses and working together for each other brings support, new business referrals, and an opportunity to celebrate the success of everyone around you.
8. What’s next for your business?
We are developing our Gold, Silver and Bronze coaching programmes Inspiring Your Success for people who are wanting to change their lives and careers to reach their ultimate goals. We will be inviting people to apply to join the programmes in the next few weeks, and I look forward to helping them on their journey to greater success.
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