Represent is one of the companies exhibiting at Startup Summit this year. Through an integrated PR and digital marketing approach, they advise their clients on the best way to generate awareness, recognition and leads. Today, Judith O'Leary, Managing Director of Represent, shares her best tips for start-ups. Get in touch with Represent to learn more.
Edinburgh is welcoming one of the UK’s leading events for entrepreneurs as the Startup Summit heads to the Assembly Rooms this October. The event is expected to help inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs, help them understand what it takes to start and maintain their own business and provide all important advice for start-ups.
With Represent set to exhibit at the Startup Summit, we thought this would be a good opportunity to speak to our managing director, Judith O’Leary. She tells us more about how she started her own business, and gives advice for start-ups hoping to follow in her footsteps.
Let’s find out what she had to say…
How did you get your idea or concept for your business?
I was Director of a large European PR agency running the Scottish office. I could see opportunities to innovate beyond traditional PR and I set up my own agency to allow me the freedom to implement these.
What was your background and work experience prior to launching your business?
Always PR. I started at Cambridge University, then worked at a cable company (Entertainment & Telecoms) before heading to Scotland to go agency side working as an Account Manager. I was promoted to Director for the Scottish office within three years.
When you were starting out, where did you get advice and help from?
I worked for an ambitious 30 something New Yorker at Comcast (the cable company). He showed me that youth and inexperience shouldn’t hold you back, curiosity and bravery will always get you far … along with good manners and being able to make a great cup of coffee.
What do you attribute to your success?
Running your own business is not the measure of success. Thriving clients and a committed, productive team working to the top of their game is, for me, a measure of great achievement.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A nurse! I grew up in Ireland where all successful girls were nurses, teachers or worked in the bank.
If you had one piece of advice to someone starting their own business, what would it be?
Pay for good advice – accountants, HR and of course marketing experts. Be clear about your goals and plot a path to achieve them and finally, find a good mentor – someone who has walked the walk!
If you want to meet Represent and more than 1,000 attendees, get your ticket today!