I got to chat with Jordan Velinor from Velinor Media Visuals on the highs and lows of setting up a business.

What inspired you to start your own business?

I always had aspirations of working within the media but never thought I’d want to run my own company until I saw how badly run many  were. I had worked for other major companies and realised that this was something I could do and do better. The prospect of creating opportunities for people who were passionate about media was also a reason for starting my own company and I’ve never looked back since.

What prompted you to get mentoring from the Princes Trust?

I needed a loan to start my business and when I’d done my research there were many companies willing to offer large sums of money but no real support with that. When a friend mentioned the Trust and said that they offered help as well as the loan that separated them from the rest. From the first day I enquired till this present day the Trust offer me mentoring, business and general support.

How is the mentoring going? How are you finding it helpful?

The mentoring is going extremely well and has from the day it started. My mentor offers me around the clock support in any way I need and I will always be thankful for that.

What is it about your mentor that you like or find most useful?

My mentor is consistent with her support and brutally honest with that support and that’s something I need. I believe you need to be matched with a mentor that suits your personality and the type of person you are and the Trust made a great decision with my mentor. It just works effortlessly.

So how are things going with Velinor Media Visuals?

All business have their good and bad days. VMV is doing well to build the solid base needed to grow. We are working hard to put the right things in place to help fulfil VMV’s potential and in the process of starting a new marketing campaign that should hopefully put us in a great position.

What do you enjoy doing the most?

I enjoy the creative freedom and also the freedom to work with who I want to, without the boundaries of a boss.

What is your vision for the future of your business?

I want to own and run a successful media company and that vision has never changed. I want to be able to create many jobs within the industry and create opportunities for those who may not be considered by the big companies. This is why VMV stick by “creating quality video, developing great people”.

What have been your main challenges so far and how have your over-come them?

My main challenges have been financing and hiring. I have overcome them by continuing to stay focused at the task at hand and working hard to overcome those barriers. I am always on the lookout for new staff and always open to giving people the opportunity to work with us.

What motivates you to get up in the morning and keep going?

The dream of owning a successful business is the reason why I get up every day and go to work. Without that dream it would be hard to motivate myself.

Is there any advice you would offer anyone setting up a business?

My advice to anyone starting a business is to take the risk. The only way you’ll know if something will work is if you try it yourself. That leap of faith is important.

If you would like to find out more about mentoring or would like to share your story please contact me – Tracy – for a chat.