Introduce yourself and tell us your business name...

I'm Irene Hislop, and my business is Creative Quill Writing & Editing Services.

How long have you been in business?

I've been writing and editing professionally in different jobs for 30 years. In 2012, I made the move to set up shop and work for myself.

What is your product or service?

I'm a writer and editor. Mostly, I provide blogs and other web content such as product descriptions, About Us pages, etc. for small and medium businesses. I also edit books, ebooks, reports and other materials.

Why did you start your business?

I'd dreamed of doing this for a long time. I've loved writing since I was a child, and I have always preferred working at home. When the recession hit and I was made redundant, I realised it was my chance to do it. In that strange time, it was the most responsible thing I could do instead of the least responsible!

What are you most passionate about in your business?

I am always learning new things. Content marketing gives companies a chance to provide their audience with information that is genuinely useful and interesting, and I love being part of that. I get to write a lot about pet care and Irish history for two of my clients, and it is a joy honestly knowing that people can take something I've written and keep their pet healthier or better appreciate a place because they've learned something more about it.

Where do you see yourself and your business in 5 years time?

I think the next few years will see more people starting or expanding small businesses, and Creative Quill will be there helping them get the word out about what they offer. I'm excited about being able to help other small businesses succeed.

What is your advice for anyone who wants to start a business?

Find your niche! Research your market very carefully, and think about what is unique about your skills and abilities. Don't try to be all things to all people; just focus on doing what you do very, very well.

Is there anything you dislike about being a business owner?

It takes a lot of self discipline to keep to a schedule that gives you time off. I'm a night owl by nature, and I'd be inclined to stay up too late because I get engrossed in what I'm doing. That said, I'm still very guilty of bringing the laptop on holidays.

How do you promote your business?

I have been very, very lucky with word of mouth. I'm on Facebook and LinkedIn, but most of my business comes from referrals by clients or by a potential client seeing my work on line and then finding me.

Share the links to your website and/or social media with us!

Facebook

LinkedIn

I work with digital marketing agencies and directly with brands. No brand is too small to benefit from some professional help with their web content, and it's more affordable than people might think..

If you would like to shine the spotlight on your business on our website and socials, just fill in our questionnaire here.