Do you know someone who’s designed for Queen Elizabeth? We do- It’s Liz Handley, our creator of the week. She has great career experience and clients who have worked with her for 20 years. Get to know more about Liz and her professional tips through her answers to our five creator questions this week:
Who are you, and what do you do?
Liz Handley—owner and director of Graphic Results. I’m essentially a graphic designer but really am a jack-of-all-trades. Whatever my customer needs, I can get it sorted out, so I am a one-stop shop. For example, I designed the invitations that went out on behalf of the Queen to dignitaries for the opening of the Derby Cathedral Visitor Centre, but as part of that job, I had to source the marble plaque which was unveiled by HRH Queen Elizabeth, along with the curtains that covered it!
How did you get started?
I set up Graphic Results in 1998 after getting a bit bored working for the same company for many years. It grew very quickly, and so my husband gave up his job to join me to help with the sales and marketing. By 2008 we had two branches and eight staff. However, the recession hit, and I became ill, so the business was scaled back, and now I work from home on my own and feel much happier and much more in control. Many of my customers are still with me after 20 years.
What sets you apart?
Being prepared to go that extra mile. Meeting deadlines even if it means working long hours—but my customers know that they can rely on me, so they see me more as a partner rather than a contractor. After having worked in the industry for so long, I have an excellent network of contacts that I can rely on and trust to supply a full range of services and products. Also, after being in the business for over 20 years, nothing really fazes me anymore!
What obstacles did you have to overcome?
The recession hit us badly, as we had a couple of big customers go under, and so we had to actively fill that gap quickly with new business. But it’s about cutting your cloth back accordingly and never giving up.
Do you have any tips for other creators?
Trust your instincts, and never take your eye off the ball. Always look for new opportunities and keep abreast of new technology. Never lose sight of what’s important to you and your family.
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Amazing Post
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