Monday 21 October 2013

Business plans and final day

On the final day of our autumn seminar we pulled everything we had learnt together in order to write a business plan for our business ideas. At first it was challenging but as soon as we began to sit down and we peth through it , it became easier. I enjoyed brain storming with my partner to think of the best ways to set up the business. I'm certain this session will come in handy when I decide to start my own business in the near future.

We presented out business plans to member of our group, it was interesting learning about other people's ideas and to hear the questions they had to ask us.

For the rest of the sening we had a surprise autumn seminar wedding to attend. It was such a good way to end the week. So much thought had gone into the idea. I don't think I could have enjoyed the final night anymore.saying goodbye to everyone was tough as we all bonded so well but I know that I will always have fantastic memories to look back on and will have made some brilliant friends. Thanks to all the prep te for their hard work, I will never forget the experience. I'm very great full to have had the opportunity to attend!

Visit to cathedral

We visited Worcester cathedrial and I can honestly say its the most impressive cathedrial! The views inside and outside the cathedrial was something else. I enjoyed learning about the history of the cathedrial and imaging what it was like back in the day if the early monks. I would recommend for anyone to visit if in the area

In the afternoon we had two business men come and talk to us about their respective businesses. It was great to learn about both their experiences. Both obviously had the abilities to take calculated risks to become successful. I hope one day I will be able to venture to be so brave.

Thursday 17 October 2013

Presentations day

Today we spent most of the day preparing a group presentation from a task set by the businesses we visited yestarday. I worked on a problem given to us from hopes in livingtown shop. We had to come up with ideas to increase/improve signage for the business. It was interesting working as a group and hearing the suggestions everyone came up with

In the afternoon we presented all out ideas to the respective business owners and they had the opportunity to give feedback and question out ideas. The response from all three of the business owners was great, very positive and constructive.

An enjoyable yet challenging day!

Wednesday 16 October 2013

Visit to local businesses

Yesterday we went on a road trip to visit three different businesses in Herefordshire area. The businesses we saw where the Hope of longtown local shop and post office, white Haywood farm restaurant and wiggly wiggers. All of these companies offered different products and services but the one thing that they all had in common was the fact that they were all rural people using initiative to make a living.

It was enjoyable to hear about the history and to see the set up of each business. We were told about the difficulties each business encountered and the solutions they used to overcomes these. The passion and drive these entrepreneurs was obvious and heart warming to hear.

An enjoyable day and inspiration for anyone who would want to venture into starting a rural business!




Monday 14 October 2013

Entrepreneurship and business plans

Today I learn what it is to be an entrepreneur..... It seems that to be a successful entrepreneur that you must have good knowledge in your field, take risks, be inavative, a leader and an inventor. Most entrepreneurs fail on their first attempts but the secret is to learn from your failings and plan for success.

We also learnt the importants of writing a business plan.  "Failing to prepare is preparing to fail". Wise words! We had visitors from Natwest bank to advise and give tips of how to write a good business plan. It was great to learn from them as well.

Next we have a session on social networking and I'm looking forward to learn more about how networking can boost a business. Angharad and I are very excited for the folk dancing tonight- sounds fun and a way to socialise with the other participants.


Sunday 13 October 2013

First day at Malvern autumn seminar

Hi my name is Heini and I'm here at the autumn seminar  to represent the Wales yfc organisation. Looking forward to the week ahead for lots of learning and fun. Can't wait for the international buffet... Bring it on!!