The Interview; David Truby on why being an entrepreneur is fun
DAVID Truby is managing director of Huddersfield-based Greensleeves Lawn Care – one of the UK’s leading providers of weed and feed services with more than 16,000 customers. In this week’s The Interview we find out why he enjoys being an entrepreneur.
What aspects of your job/profession do you enjoy the most?
Growing our business through franchising is a very rewarding process, a new franchisee typically starts from fresh with no technical knowledge and no customers, our training quickly see’s them learning some real relevant skills and our marketing techniques quickly establish a worth while business. Watching that process unfold really does give me satisfaction every time
What key challenges do you anticipate will affect your sector/profession over the next six months?
The later part of 2009 is predicted to be warmer and drier than previous years which has an impact on the appearance of lawns and therefore our customers perception of our service. The challenge for us is to communicate with them as best we can to ensure lawns stay as healthy as possible but also that our customers remain comfortable with our service.
What key skills do you think every entrepreneur should have?
Motivation and self belief to go out there and make it happen. There are lots of opportunities to grow a business but having the belief in your own abilities is the thing I believe sets people apart.
Why do you think Yorkshire is a good place to start up/operate a business?
The people of Yorkshire are willing to try new ideas but when they find something they like, at the right price and the right level of service, they tend to be loyal to that company. This helps with long term planning and cash flow prediction.
If you could improve anything in the region what would it be?
The major road networks in and out of the county could be improved to make access better for those trading outside of the region.
Do you think that red tape is hindering business growth in the UK?
No
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
My Dad used to tell me ” If a job is worth doing its worth doing well” that rings around in my head still bringing back memories of chores I used to have to do at home. It is something that has come back to me in adulthood and it is phrase I repeat to myself regularly to ensure I get the best out of myself.
And the worst?
“You can’t go wrong buying bricks and mortar”. A friendly individual offering me advice just prior to buying my first house. Within 12 months the bottom had fallen out of the market and I was left with negative equity for years. I don’t bear a grudge though.
What barriers have you had to overcome in growing your business/developing your career, and if any, can you explain how you overcame them.
Cash flow is a constant challenge in our business as we are a seasonal business we have a boom and bust situation each year, that creates real frustration at times as opportunities arise throughout the year. Learning the skills to manage that situation has proved invaluable in helping to fund projects throughout the year. I have overcome them by producing strong detailed business plans to the banks and suppliers to help them understand that situation. It has enabled us to manage our cash much more effectively and ensure we no longer have to sit on our hands through the lean times.
What was your first job and what did you spend your first wage packet on?
I got a summer job working shifts in an electronics components factory, I saved every penny I earned for 6 weeks and bought my first car, before I had learned to drive.
If you could choose to start your career over again would you do anything different and if so what?
I would listen to my teachers more in school and college, I would probably look to do more business and commerce type course at school and college, so I had some of the necessary skills rather than learning them on the job.
