Tell us a bit about your business.
I’m a digital marketing specialist with a focus on analytics. My clients are small to medium businesses in the southeast of England. I’m very analytical myself, with a degree in genetic engineering as well as being a certified Google Partner. I wanted to bring the benefits of data-led decision making to companies who can’t afford the cost of large agency fees, and whose in-house marketers are usually more generalists.
When my dad became ill, I resented being stuck in my employer’s office while he faded away at home. And, I wanted the flexibility to do the things in my life that mattered. So, I decided to make the leap to self-employment. And here I am.
I chose ‘Platypus’ as the name partly because it’s my favorite word (it’s impossible to say without smiling) and partly because it is a hybrid animal—a bit like me. While I’m analytical, I’m also very much a people person and creative, too. I don’t just analyze the data, I convert it into meaningful insights and actions that improve clients’ online presence, amplify their SEO, lure in new customers and keep existing customers engaged and spending.
How has your business progressed recently and what do you attribute that to? Where do you see your business in one year?
In my first year, I grew from nothing to eight regular clients, all of whom regularly provide feedback on the sales increases they are seeing as the result of my work. I have become more aware of how my analytical insights are giving my clients confidence in their own decisions, which is helping them grow.
What are your favorite tools or resources that help you do business smarter, and how have they made a difference?
Google Analytics, Google AdWords, Mailchimp, Google Data Centre, Google Drive and WaveApps.
What advice would you offer to businesses like yours just starting up?
When I started, a number of agencies told me there was no market for what I was doing. But I found that hard to believe. I’d advise someone else to believe in themselves and do an honest job. Trust is everything with clients, and it is what leads to referrals.
Where can customers find and connect with your business?
Submitted January 2018
