5 things I’ve learned running my own business: Graham Belfield, B&M Installations

Graham Belfield, managing director of Notts-based interior fit-out company B&M Installations, discusses five things he’s learnt from running his own business.

Be committed to staff and they’ll be committed to you
I’m lucky that many of my staff members have been with me 15 years plus. And I think this is because I’ve always treated the team like family. Keeping the team’s spirits up is hugely important – we’ll often have long days on site, but my team always put the hours in and ensure their work is excellent every time. In return, I always make sure I’m there for the team, working long days and grafting just as hard as them and we always say thank you with away days and support whenever they need it.

Nurture client relationships
We are experts in internal fit-outs, so we do everything from decoration and joinery to electrics and design. Some of our clients will only use us once for an office refurbishment, but others may be developing a huge number of sites – regardless of who they are, I’ve learned it’s important to nurture your relationship with a client, you never know when they might become repeat customers or be asked for recommendations.

Honesty is imperative
In the past we had an invoice paid twice – we could have taken the money, but we returned the payment immediately. We’ve grown our business based on honesty and treating customers the same way that we would want to be treated and it’s proving a successful strategy.

A good working environment will help get the best out of people
I’ve found that it’s amazing what good lighting, decent breakout areas and vibrant decoration can do to boost staff morale and productivity. I’ve refurbished and decorated hundreds, if not thousands, of office spaces and employees are always given a boost when their company invests in updated facilities.

First impressions count
As they say: ‘You only get one chance at a first impression’. We may work on building sites, but it doesn’t mean our team can’t look smart and professional. Providing branded uniform for staff not only makes them look for professional but also reminds them that they are representing our business. A good first impression helps establish a good client relationship from day one.