Mantra Marketing Group Magazine Issue #009
Become the best version of yourself 09
005
015
035
Celebrating 18 Years
Becoming the Best Version of Yourself
Matt Nicholson and Monument Promotions
Boondocks Weekender
in busines with Fran
We discuss self
We discuss fluidity,
Boondocks festival to
and James of Mantra
development and the
consistency and team
celebrate and unwind
Marketing Group
spirit of the entrepreneur
work with the rapidly
Celebrating 18 years
rising star
039
We head to the
CATEGORY OUR CONTRIBUTORS
Our contributors Francis Colam Chief Editor
Fran is Chief Operations Officer for Mantra Marketing working with people and companies to help the business become more efficient and profitable.
Alex Rae
Art Director / Designer Alex is the Managing Director of Bristol based film production company Falcon Productions.
Rose Lucas Editor / Author
Rose studied at the University of Bristol where she obtained a BA in English Literature, before moving to London to study at Identity School of Acting and continue her work as a writer/ editor.
Nic Kane Photographer
Nic is a Bristol-based photographer specialising in the commercial, events and fitness sectors.
001
CATEGORY INDEX
In this issue Introduction 003 Owners Meeting Celebrating 18 Years with Mantra
005 011
The Entreprenur Academy
023
Self Development
027
Matt Nicholson & Monument Promotions
033
Mark & Enigma Promotions
037
Stateside w/ Rob from RedSeven
041
Making Waves in Mumbai
047
Festivals and Travel Section
055
March Ski Trip
057
The Mantra Weekender
059
Ibiza September
075
The Context of the Entrepreneur
077
Photo Pool
079
Office List
112
002
CATEGORY EDITOR'S LET TER
Introduction “As we hit the halfway point of 2018, it’s time to reflect upon what the year has brought so far.”
Welcome to the summer edition of our Magazine
the heat of the business world, set yourself clear
- and what a summer it is turning out to be! With
intentions for the next few months. Be proud of
the sun high in the sky, smiles on our faces and
your development and keep a keen eye on your
half of the year still stretching out ahead of us, it
own development, not just in a stats sense, but
is time to celebrate our achievements and raise a
in terms of the self. Look around at the network of
glass to each other. We're stronger than ever and
colleagues that are so willing to lend a hand, and
with promotions happening every quarter, new
take a moment to recognise the limitless support
companies opening left, right and centre and the
that underpins the company - it’s a special thing.
team continuing to expand, we are truly flying high. With strong foundations in place, begin to push In this edition we focus on self-development.
yourself. Notice where your comfort zone lies where
The higher up we climb in the industry, the more
you sit within it and start to test your boundaries.
opportunity there is for teaching others. The more
In this line of work, the parameters within which the
opportunity there is for teaching others, the greater
‘Entrepreneur’ exists - more than exists, thrives - a
the insight into ourselves. With the newly opened
re constantly shifting. Use this to your advantage.
Entrepreneur Academy and mentor-schemes in
Be fluid, open and ready for change. Prepare
place, we are dedicated to ensuring that our team
yourself and be ready to step outside your comfort
are able to work to their full potential. We look at
zone as you sprint forward into the summer...
the benefits of learning about ourselves through sharing knowledge with others and begin to locate where and when we are operating at our optimum level of self. Our guys are continually at the top of their game running seminars and meetings abroad, and despite the glorious weather here in the UK (a rare thing), we are as passionate as ever about jumping on a plane and filling our time with travel. With trips to Ibiza, the ski-trip, business trips to Florida, Mumbai and the chance to win an adventure abroad a regular offering here, you can look forward to exercising
2018
your itchy feet and stretching your Entrepreneurial skills abroad as well as on your doorstep. As we hit the halfway point of 2018, it’s time to
Five countries - fifty cities five years
reflect upon what the year has brought us so far. Have you managed to keep to those resolutions you shouted from the rooftops with such aplomb as the clock struck midnight on January 1st? How close to hitting your goals have you been so far? And what are your ambitions for the remainder of this year? As we pause to breathe in the sweet summer air, shake out the springtime and fully embrace
003
CATEGORY EDITOR'S LET TER
004
CATEGORY MEETINGS & EVENTS
Owner's Meeting De Vere Hotel, Wotton House, Guildford
"A combination of business and pleasure, these meetings are a staple part of each quarter here at Mantra, ensuring that we move forwards with a sense of cohesion and a feeling of camaraderie."
E
quarter
building. The meeting runs over two days,
Mantra
and in this time we each run a topic, have
we get everyone
the chance to catch up with other Owners
together for an
as well as taking a much needed opportunity
Owner’s Meeting.
for relaxation, with a BBQ on the terrace and
This
it
a drinks reception to accompany us through
over
the long summer evenings. A combination of
in
business and pleasure, these meetings are
July at the De Vere Hotel, Wotton House in
a staple part of each quarter here at Mantra,
Guildford. The hotel was stunning, situated
ensuring that we move forwards with a sense
amongst
of cohesion and a feeling of camaraderie.
beautiful
very here
was a
gardens
at
time held
weekend
and
decked
out with an indoor pool, restaurant and tennis courts. The Owner’s Meetings are an opportunity for us to check in with each other in a relaxed environment, to strategize for the next quarter and ensure that we are all on the same page. At the moment we are concentrating on growth and expansion across the board. It has been a busy few months, and our focus now is to develop the next group through extensive training and a stress on the importance of team
005
006
CATEGORY MEETINGS & EVENTS
007
CATEGORY MEETINGS & EVENTS
008
CATEGORY MEETINGS & EVENTS
009
CATEGORY MEETINGS & EVENTS
010
CATEGORY DEVELOPMENT
CELEBRATING 18 YEARS of MANTRA "I wouldn’t say that I had many skills, much finesse or technique when I first started, but I can say that I was determined to suc- JAMES BUCKLEY - FOUNDER / CEO - MANTRA MARKETING GROUP -
A
head of their anniver-
beyond my wildest dreams, really. It was daunting,
sary,
18
but equally exciting. I had no idea what I was doing!
years in business with
But I was operating from a sort of ‘nothing ventured
Mantra, I caught up with
nothing gained’ outlook, without which I probably
CEO,
wouldn’t have ended up where I am today’.
and
celebrating
James Chief
Buckley,
Operations
Officer, Fran Colam to
A couple of years down the line, and with the com-
reflect
pany continuing to expand, James began looking
upon
how
far
18 YEARS OF MANTRA
they’ve come and what lies ahead.
011
for someone to head the recruitment side of things. It was during this stage that Fran Colam joined the
Mantra Marketing was initially established by
company, ‘He needed someone ambitious, so we
James back in 2000 after he was recruited by a
started working together in Bristol’. Neither Fran,
friend to work for a similar company where he found
nor James, knew just how far the company would
that he progressed well. He began to find success
evolve, but one thing was certain, they both had
in an industry, that ‘in all honesty I never had any
extremely high standards and oodles of drive.
ambitions’ to work in. As time progressed and I re-
Fran describes how James is ‘super ambitious,
alised I was succeeding, I thought I’d run with it’. He
fast paced and expects a lot. He pushes me and
spent 18 months working in the field, before taking
pushes the guys’ which made for a fantastic work-
the plunge and setting up a company of his own -
ing atmosphere back then, and still does today, ‘He
Mantra - and things have grown at an extraordinary
puts everyone else first and as a result of that the
rate since then. ‘It was certainly an unexpected
company moves forwards’.
venture and one that has grown and progressed
"We can make such a difference to other people, which is why it’s so rewarding." - FRAN COLAM / COO - MANTRA MARKETING GROUP -
CATEGORY DEVELOPMENT
The
company
began
to
expand,
and
with the help of Fran and some fresh new recruits, Mantra began to find its feet within the industry. This process of growth
was
a
bubbling
combination
of
learning on the job, a certain element of risk-taking and a whole lot of passion and determination. James himself is the first to admit that he wasn’t the epitome of the average ‘Entrepreneur’ when he first began his venture into this industry - ‘I wouldn’t say that I had many skills, much finesse or technique when I first started, but I can
‘The underlying components that create a ‘working dynamic’ are really
say that I was determined to succeed’. It is important to partner knowledge with a strong sense of passion, drive...and well,
what sets the company up for success
personality! Not all successful Entrepreneurs
of failure.’
were born that way - it is a process of
- FRAN COLAM-
development that requires a lot of nurturing, the ability to learn from mistakes along the way and most of all, a positive mindset. The manner in which Mantra has evolved is really the product of an amazing group effort. I asked both Fran and James how they found working together and whether or not they realised early on that this was going to be a successful business partnership. Fran explains how, ‘we have a similar vision for the company; we set the same goals, but we also compliment each other in terms of our personalities and our ways of working which I think is important. We balance each other out. James is the sort of person who will walk into a room and be the energy, and I guess I’m the one who helps facilitate things. We’ve got different energies so between us we cover all bases; it’s a very good working dynamic in that sense, one that has served us extremely well over the years’. The underlying components that create a ‘working dynamic’ are really what sets the company up for success or failure. It’s simple, really - if there is a strong sense of cohesion, positivity, drive and sense of togetherness on a roots level, then that will filter through to the business side of things. Fran goes on to describe how her and James ‘lead by example’, therefore ‘the working relationship that we promote is picked up and put into play by the company as a whole. We are a family. Our values filter down through the business and consequently this creates a strong sense of cohesion - it’s something that we are very proud of’. James and Fran compliment each other well in terms of their skill and their energy and this is a huge part of why Mantra has done so well. With friendship at the heart of the company they have a strong foundation from which to grow, and with generosity aplenty, the sky's the limit.
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CATEGORY DEVELOPMENT
‘It’s not a case of distinguishing between work and life, it’s a way of life. I feel really in line with my purpose; operating in a state of flow when you’re happy and you’re enjoying what you’re doing is when you are most creative and can be your best self.’
- FRAN COLAM-
014
I never imagined this is how things would turn out - I thought we would be running one office, probably in Bristol where we first started and that would be that. To think now that we have offices worldwide - we are operating in Belarus, Spain, all over the UK and in Russia where I work every other week - is extraordinary. I had no idea I would be flying to Russia every week, let’s put it that way! - JAMES BUCKLEY -
"There is always more to learn, new people to meet, fresh skills to acquire. That never stops. I’m learning as much as I’m teaching’" - JAMES BUCKLEY -
Whilst they may operate on slightly different
philosophy of the company that has ensured
frequencies, one thing is certain, when
that these people have stayedworking
asked what they are most proud of, both
for Mantra? Fran explains how they have
Entrepreneurs land on the same answer -
always wanted to make Mantra the best
helping other people fulfil their potential.
possible environment for anyone to work in.
It’s not a self-serving endeavour. It’s not
Her personal philosophy is, ‘you have one
all materialism and money, and it certainly
life, it’s short, you have to love what you do.
isn’t a case of one-upmanship here. Whilst
I absolutely don’t want to be one of those
both parties are aware of the benefits of
people that watches the clock and counts
financial gain in terms of it allowing them to
down the minutes until they can leave work
lead full lives, enabling them to travel and
and go home. That’s not what it’s about for
to support their families - both James and
me. My work is who I am!’. The culture that her
Fran have children - when it comes to their
and James wanted to create was one where
achievements, both look back with pride
the work doesn’t feel like ‘work’, but instead is
when they they reflect on how far their guys
part of a wider process of self-development
have come. James elaborates on this notion,
and growth, resulting in the high retention
stating, ‘Yes, I’m proud of how far we’ve come,
rate and glowing success stories of their
but it’s more a pride in terms of the team we
teams. Fran said she was driving home last
have built. The people who work with us
night and had a moment where she just
and the community we have at Mantra is
wanted to text James and say, ‘I just love our
so strong. It’s a really cool way of life, and
job!’, and that says it all really! With genuine
it’s really the people that make it. Everyone
passions running through the business, the
gets on with one another, we all have each
formula is simple, and their success is a result
other’s backs and in this way it’s incredibly
of what have been quite natural evolutions in
supportive, and incredibly good fun! They are
the company.
a literal manifestation of our core values, and I am incredibly grateful and incredibly proud of our team’. It’s about making a difference to other people’s lives, providing them with an opportunity and watching them flourish
‘As Mantra started to develop a
as a result. Fran expands on this, stating
personality of its own, strengthened
that ‘I think what I’m most proud of is helping
its identity and consequently began
other people to fulfil their potential. Helping them live out a life that they perhaps never thought they could. I don’t necessarily mean
making waves within the industry, the number of recruits grew and grew’
just in financial terms - although, being able to live nice lives, buy houses and travel the world is one of the perks of the job - but more in terms of the confidence and self-belief that the work encourages them to develop. We’ve got guys that we’ve nurtured from the very start who are now running their own businesses, something they never dreamed would have been possible at the start, so that’s really wonderful to see. To be able to facilitate such self-development is really why I do this’. As Mantra started to develop a personality of its own, strengthened its identity and consequently began making waves within the industry, the number of recruits grew and grew. I asked its founders what it is about their workplace that continues to attract the ‘right’ people. Not only this, but furthermore If a company is defined by those who work within it, what is it about the
018
CATEGORY DEVELOPMENT
These
manifested
simply in a logistical manner, but in terms
down, toast their achievements and reflect
themselves in the founding of of multiple new
evolutions
of their own time management and sense
upon their success. The trips provide them
companies under the umbrella of Mantra,
of selves. I am told that it all boils down to
with the space to celebrate each other’s
with RedSeven, 1to1, Black Stag, Monument
communication - ‘We communicate all the
achievements and to enjoy what we they
Promotions to name but a few of the
time
Technology
created. Fran states how ‘it is important to
success stories over the years. With offices
means that even when I’m here in the UK
take a step back, not just when we’re doing
all over the UK as well as in Russia, Spain
and James is over in Russia, we can still
well, but also when things have been dif-
and Belarus, Mantra have certainly begun
FaceTime and run meetings. I’ve trained
ficult....and when things are difficult, we fall
establish a global presence. I asked Fran
half of the Russian team via FaceTime, it’s
back on the strong network and community
why there was such a focus on expanding
extraordinary.’ James explains how they
that we have created’.
internationally, and what it is that draws
run quarterly organisational meetings ‘with
them to work abroad. She explains how
everyone,meaning those that have been in
In terms of self-development, I asked both
their business works in every country. They
the company for a week, to those who have
Entrepreneurs if they feel different now to
market products, and those products are
been working with us for 10 years’ - and that
the people who invested themselves, their
global, therefore they are global business.
has really helped them stay on track, mark
time and their energy into a the company
Furthermore, they are able to teach any
their progress and ensure that everyone is
18 years ago. James’s response was that he
nationality because of the systems that they
on the same page. They also plan for the
is ‘still learning - probably just as much as I
use, therefore it’s quite a straightforward
year as a whole and set a theme for this
was 18 years ago. There is always more to
transposition. ‘Of course you have to be
to add an extra layer of cohesion. But what
learn, new people to meet, fresh skills to ac-
adaptable and open to making alterations
about when it comes to their personal lives,
quire. That never stops. I’m learning as much
here and there based on the context, the
how do they ensure that they have time for
as I’m teaching’. And finally, the advice that
country, the people involved... but really it
themselves and their families? James said
they would offer anyone else starting out in
all comes down to communication’. Fran
he is forced to make time! He has learned on
the industry now is that ‘people come first’.
explains how ‘essentially our way of working
the job how to navigate between work and
James and Fran are the glue that hold Man-
and our ‘formula’ has remained constant’,
life, colleagues and family, and to balance the
tra together, and they place a huge amount
even when the context has changed. For
two - ‘I used to be disorganised, but I’ve felt
of gravitas on developing and sustaining re-
example, when they opened in Spain, they
myself change and morph into someone who
lationships. Fran describes how ‘we couldn’t
realised
slightly
has to be organised. There’s no two ways
do this without each other. Sometimes,
differently...people would have three-course
about it. I have list upon list upon list. That
when you’re financially up against a wall,
lunches and operate in a far more laissez-
shift has been a result of how the business
when things are tough, it all comes down to
faire manner... So instead of indulging a
has developed, but also from having a family,
treating people the right way, looking after
feud, they celebrated their differences and
having an amazing social life, and travelling
each other and pulling through as a com-
decided to bring the meeting to the lunches
lots’. For a self-confessed ‘non-workaholic’,
pany. Never underestimate the importance
- the best of both! A certain amount of open-
James has found a lifestyle that is as much
of manners, kindness and support’. James
mindedness and a willingness to learn from
about going out and having fun as it is working
emphasises the importance of working hard,
others seem to be qualities that have stood
hard; for him, running the company has been
but playing hard on top of that, ensuring that
Mantra in fantastic stead, thus far, and in
about finding ‘ways to compartmentalise, to
you have fun through it all. And their plan for
terms of blurring the boundaries between
be incredibly productive with the hours in my
the future? The 5-year plan is to be operat-
work and play, the ability to combine the two
day. I’ve learned to get up earlier, to maximise
ing in 5 different countries by 2023, but their
is something that many of the team members
my time and make the most out of every
overall ambition is to ‘keep offering people
I’ve spoken to within the company are adept
aspect of my life’. Enjoying yourself whilst
opportunities’ - there is no limit on that one
at. Fran tells me that ‘Today the guys are at
working hard is exactly the sort of advice we
- and something that really shines through
the races, and yes, they’ll discuss business,
can all raise a glass (or three) to! And when
is the sense of community that they have at
but they’ll also have a drink and enjoy
it comes to family, it’s simple: ‘When you’ve
Mantra. That is what sets them apart: ‘We are
themselves, enjoy each other’s company’,
got a family, you have to make time for that
a business with a heart.’
how ‘the dynamic that they establish as
side of your life. Sometimes your career can
friends will filter through to their cooperation
complement other aspects of your life, but
in the workplace’. Her and James both have
it’s ultimately down to you to prioritise what’s
families, but they will go camping together
right for you and make it work’.
that
things
have
were
done
and
that’s
what’s
key.
and hang out as mates. She says that she ‘wants to emphasise that it’s not all about
Reaching 18 years of Mantra is a good
being ‘serious’ and ‘professional’ all the time.
opportunity to pause, reflect and take in how
Obviously we have to manage our time very
far the company has grown since the year
carefully, especially now that the business
2000. In an age where we are constantly
is growing, but that’s just a case of planning
encouraged to look forwards, to jump to the
ahead and we plan about a year in advance
next thing and to ‘improve’, it is particularly
of where we’re at. We will check in with each
important to go against the grain and to
other and ensure that we’re in sync even if
take a breath to review your own progress.
we’re not in the same place at the same time'.
The Mantra festival, the ski-trips and the holidays are a fantastic opportunity to do
I asked them how they find managing
just that, and Fran and James ensure that
these different strands of temporality, not
their team have ample time to let their hair
019
18
"It’s about making a difference to other people’s lives, providing them with an opportunity and watching them flourish as a result.." - FRAN COLAM -
CATEGORY DEVELOPMENT
021
CATEGORY DEVELOPMENT
022
The Entrepreneur Academy Helping our team unlock their full potential and be the best they can be
E
arlier
this
quarter,
we opened our very own
Entrepreneur
Academy
and
already it is off to a flying start. Between us, we place a strong
focus on nurturing and developing our teams , across the board. Of course it is exciting to recruit new team members and watch how they inject a new energy into the business; however, what is most rewarding for us is seeing those people grow. We recognise their potential and help them to achieve things
that
they
never
dreamed
were
possible. That is what we are about. Support, confidence
building
and
facilitation.
Our
Entrepreneur Academy is a manifestation of our core values, and acts as a formal space within which we are able to train our teams and invest time in them and their learning. Within the Academy, we offer seminars, meetings, opportunities for our teams to further educate themselves in the world of business and sales. We not only hold events in the South West, but also offer various opportunities in London, so our guys have the chance to venture slightly further afield and absorb inspiration from other Crew Leaders and Business Owners. Our Facebook page is a fantastic way to keep in sync with each other, and with other businesses operating all over the country. We run a Facebook live every week and The Academy has already been party to three fantastic successes this year, so a huge congratulations to: Chance Cowie, Daniel How and Charlotte Vass.
023
024
CATEGORY DEVELOPMENT
025
CATEGORY DEVELOPMENT
026
Self Development:
Becoming the Best Version of Yourself 'I am learning just as much as i am teaching' - JAMES BUCKLEY -
T
he
spirit
of
the
dictionary sense of the word, an Entrepreneur is
not
defined as ‘a person who sets up a business or
simply come alive in the
businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope
‘workplace’
know
of profit’. In its simplest form, this is true; however,
it. In fact, who are we to
what does this word mean to you? Doesn’t the
define the parameters of
word itself - the title - evoke far more than just
such a ‘workplace’? In this
someone that ‘hopes for profit’. The true spirit of
industry, the work itself becomes something more
the Entrepreneur is greater than that. When we
than just a job. It is a way of life.
begin to dissect the word itself, it becomes more
Entrepreneur
does
as
we
than just a name, it is a way of being. It has a drive,
In evading the rigidity of what we might understand
a momentum and a purpose.
to be a ‘working day’ - book-ended by snatches of time outside of the 9-5 in which we ‘live’ our
The difference between simply assuming a job-
actual lives - the average day for the Entrepreneur
title, and ‘Entrepreneur’ being something we
becomes a space in which there is no separation
understand in a fuller, all-encompassing sense, I
between work and life; they are one. Within this
think has something to do with the ego. When one
frame, it is interesting to track the development
is able to move on from simply ticking the dictionary
of the self; to notice the parts of oneself that are
definition box - ‘hoping for profits’ - and instead
brought to the surface depending on context, and
begins to embody the spirit of the Entrepreneur,
to check-in with the progress one has made, not
not only in terms of numbers and figures but in
just in business terms but in terms of selfhood.
all aspects of life, then one can begin to grow. In
After
self-development
the pursuit of a career, if one is striving simply
fuels the business and vice versa. A sort of co-
for titular recognition, then at some point things
existence forms between the two worlds, one that
are going to begin to dissipate. It is important to
is coalesced in the term, ‘Entrepreneur’.
set goals in order to track one’s development, of
all,
in
this
industry,
course it is; however, when hitting these goals When we think of what we know to be true about the word, ’Entrepreneur’, we think of it as a title, no? A job-title? Or is it something more? In the
becomes our sole purpose, and we start to equate possession of a Title with success, we are falling short of ourselves.
CATEGORY DEVELOPMENT
028
CATEGORY DEVELOPMENT
We often understand progress in a linear format - depending on what
to consider self-development in terms of other people as well as
sort of learner you are this can be visual or it can even be through our
something that, by definition, revolves around the self. Consider your
verbal communication, in the ‘language of success’ - and this goes to
impact on other people, the way in which people respond to you, and
explain the tendency we have to set ourselves quarterly goals as we
in turn the response you receive from them.
strive to occupy a new space and new positions within a company. However, it is important to recognise what is driving you forwards - is
I spoke to Mark Widnell from Enigma Promotions about the sense of
it the (public) glory of gaining a title, or is it the (private) satisfaction of
community within this line of work, and here’s what he had to say:
hitting a certain criteria? This isn’t to say that being motivated by an accolade is wrong as such, but be sure to keep a grasp on the greater meaning of such an accolade. What does it truly mean to be a Crew Leader, or an Owner? How have you developed in yourself to garner such a role? Begin to analyse the qualities you have cultivated in order to be able to conduct yourself in such a manner. These titles exist to aid our understanding of progression, not to encourage a hierarchy. Competition is healthy - to an extent - but try not to let the ego take over as you feel yourself move forwards. Keep a grasp on the true nature of the work, and what it is about this world that inspires you. Remember where you started, what you have learned and how you have managed to implement these skills in everyday life. When we remove the ego, our work becomes about other people rather than just the self. It is therefore interesting
029
‘What is so refreshing about this industry is that everyone is willing to lend a hand, to help each other. Coming from a previous workplace where that wasn’t the case, where people were - on the contrary - quite suspicious of you if you offered to help, the atmosphere and the working dynamic that exists here is incredibly supportive. That’s really special’.
There is so much advice that is readily available, so draw upon it. Share your skills, help others and be open to receiving help. That extends across the country and across the world, with advancements in technology, we are able to share ideas and experiences with other business worldwide - which is extraordinary, really. In sharing your abilities with others, you are encouraged to re-assess and re-evaluate your own skill set, the areas in which you are strong and those that you need to work on. It’s an extremely useful arena in which to track your self-development. In teaching others, we learn most about ourselves.
‘What is so refreshing about this industry is that everyone is willing to lend a hand, to help each other. Coming from a previous workplace where that wasn’t the case, where people were - on the contrary - quite suspicious of you if you offered to help, the atmosphere and the working dynamic that exists here is incredibly supportive. That’s really special ’
Self Development: Being the Best Version of Yourself 'Get back what you give out'
O
ur
line
of
is
As Entrepreneurs, you are always operating in the
person-
public sphere, it’s all about communication and
industry,
tapping into how and why something is engaging,
centred
what translates and why...it’s really about analysing
communication,
relationships and methods of communication and
therefore endeavour to
that comes from a wider emotional intelligence. It’s
find the humanity and
interesting to fine-tune your ability to affect another
the heart in the business.
person through your language, your body language,
Perhaps we can learn most about ourselves in
your actions. I guess this is finding the heart in the
teaching other people, and isn’t that essentially
business, the humanity. The ‘character’ of success.
what we do when we build a company? We build
What does it mean? What does it look like? What does
a team of people, share knowledge, and grow
it feel like?
essentially
work a
to-person one
that
around
is
together. Think about when you are working at your optimum level, when you are most engaged, present, articulate and track the response you receive from your colleagues. I asked Rob of RedSeven Marketing whether he found that learned more about himself when teaching other people? This was his response:
It all comes back to self-development: how you develop as a businessman/woman and how you develop as a person and therefore how those two align. Where and when they crossover to produce an optimum result. How often do we check in with ourselves and really analyse how far we have come,
‘It’s a different approach - when you are travelling
what we have learned, and how that has altered
and presenting to a group of people, you are
our being? In an industry where travel and cross-
presenting a certain type of self. Your best self.
global communication is encouraged, the context
Your most persuasive self. There’s an art to public
of the Entrepreneur is something that is continually
speaking, and that is a huge part of becoming a
changing. There are no boundaries within which one
successful Entrepreneur. The ability to hold a room
is able or not able to operate. A true Entrepreneur
and to impart knowledge in a successful manner.
does not switch off his or her ‘work’ ethic when
I’ve been running a business for 5 years now, but the
they switch off the light to their office; on the
idea of travelling to America to teach other people how to run a business was something I’d never really thought about. To know now that I’m in a position where I’m doing that is a wake up call to how far I’ve come and how much I have developed, almost without realising it. I don’t normally think of it like that but actually yeah, looking back and seeing how far I’ve come is useful in moving forwards. Tracking the progress of the self, alongside the progress of the business.’
contrary they are operate in a constant state of awareness whereby they are awake and open to opportunities, they are present. To be present is to be in the moment, to channel your attention on the here and now. Be that a meeting, an interaction or even your journey to and from ‘work’, they are ready for anything; that is to say they exist in a state of preparedness. This isn't to say that there is no opportunity for relaxation or ‘switching off’, but instead one is open to the opportunities and inspiration that may come their way, wherever or whenever that may be.
031
developing your business
032
CATEGORY INTERVIEWS
Matt Nicholson and Monument Promotions Checking in with Matt Nicholson as Monument Promotions continues to thrive. With much to celebrate over at Monument Promotions, I grabbed 5 minutes with Business Owner, Matt Nicholson to check-in with him on the exceptional growth of his company
How’s it been going? We’ve been going from strength to strength. When we last spoke, I had been focussed on establishing a solid team of guys, and since then have been concentrating on growing those individuals. The business has sort of experienced a few evolutions as those people have matured. Every quarter, the business seems to become a new sort of animal....there is a sense of fluidity and an element of the unknown as we venture forwards.
Tell us a bit about your plans for expansion over the rest of the year...what’s the trajectory looking like?
We hit a big PB last week - 380 sales - and we’ve now got two Assistant Owners working here, those being Chance Cowie and Charlotte Vass. We’re looking to open up another three offices over the next 6 months. At the moment, it’s about making sure we have a solid team in place, one that is prepared for the expansion that wilI happen over the rest of this year. This essentially means focussing on developing and improving the guys so that they are ready to run their own offices
me is a sort of fail-safe way of ensuring that he’s ready to do it on his own; I can make sure - first hand - that he is doing everything he needs to be doing so the transition is a lot smoother. I am going away and leaving him to it for a week or so over the summer, so that will be a good opportunity for him to run the office and prove himself in this new role.
How are you feeling about the rapid expansion Monument has experienced?
There are areas in which we can improve, but there are also things that I know that we do well. I think it’s important for us to grow with the same standards, awareness and attention to detail that we already have in place now. It’s important not to lose those things as you get bigger.
How are you feeling at this stage of running a business? Are you where you imagined you’d be or have you exceeded your expectations?
when the time comes.
I think we’re where we wanted to be - with the situation growing so
Tell us a bit about how you've been mentoring your AO's
the business evolves a step ahead of me and then I have to catch up,
and how they've taken to their new role
Chance has been working really closely with me, so he will be opening his office in the next 10 weeks. This process of him working alongside
quickly, I am continually pushed out of my comfort zone. It’s almost like which lends itself to quick progressions and a strong working dynamic I’m kept on my toes, I’m learning, I’m improving. I think that’s sort of part and parcel of growing a business quickly.
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CATEGORY INTERVIEWS
continued...
Outside of your comfort zone is where you learn the most, and I would imagine that this sense of playing catch up with the business is one that creates an amazing energy across the company. How have you found that you’ve developed? Have you noticed changes in yourself since teaching other people?
I think you quickly learn what you need to do to keep the ball in the air. The areas where you can improve become very apparent. The business works in cycles - whether you’re teaching people to sell or teaching people to build a team - regardless of the topic, the methods that you employ stay the same. It’s a case of noticing the areas in which you can develop your learning as opposed to spending too much time reflecting on yourself. I think an important realisation, as the business grows, is that you can’t do everything yourself. It’s important to be able to teach others and allow yourself to delegate.
I guess it’s a process of observation to pinpoint the areas that you need to improve. It’s all about communication, so if you are able to cultivate your communication skills to the extent that you are able to teach in a productive and successful manner, then you’re on the road to success.
Yes - in this industry we are constantly developing our communication skills. Whether that’s speaking in topics, delivering a talk or speaking one to one with someone - these moments can be equally as important - it’s a skill. It’s like driving a car, you start off with an awareness of what needs to be done, and you’re very conscious of this; whereas, once
035
you settle into your stride, it becomes second nature and you don’t have to think about h owyou are communicating, you automatically know how to do it. Competency comes with experience, but another thing is that when you’re running your own company, you've got a lot of freedom. You quickly find out what you enjoy doing, where your passion lies and what you’re good at! That’s where running a company becomes enjoyable and you start to build momentum - from your own observations and the feedback you receive from others, you become more aware of the areas in which your skills lie. You can be surprised by your own abilities which is nice!
I think the ability to recognise when you are operating at your optimum level, when you are presenting the best version of yourself, is part of what makes a successful Entrepreneur. It can be a wonderful thing when you realise how far you’ve come. Sometimes this is during a moment of reflection, but it can often come as a surprise when you notice qualities that you now possess that you perhaps didn't have at the start.
Totally - you know, when I was asked to run a topic for the first time I was probably quite nervous! But then you realise, sort of halfway through, not only am I doing this, but I’m actually quite good at it. I guess that is where you do learn a lot about yourself. In a lot of other jobs, you’re never put in a position where you’re working outside of your comfort zone. I think in that sense we are lucky to work in this way.
Mark and Enigma Promotions ‘I had to learn on a much more ad-hoc basis, which was useful in a different way. I was certainly out of my comfort zone, but that can be a fantastic space for creativity.’ - MARK WIDNELL / ENIGMA PROMOTIONS -
recently opened Enigma Promotions! They may be based in
What is your approach to growing the business? How do you operate inside of this framework?
a small countryside town, but they are making waves on the
The whole industry is a numbers game. Operating in a state
North Devon coast. I caught up with him to hear all about the
of persuasion and trying to build a company of people who
new business venture.
are right for Enigma can be frustrating; however, I think I
Congratulations to Mark Widnell over in Barnstaple, who has
Congratulations, Mark! Tell us a bit about the process of establishing Enigma... I had already been running an office for a year prior to opening my own, so I sort of did it back to front. In that sense, it has been quite a smooth transition. We started out on residential, and over the last 4 months we’ve moved into events. My territory before was quite narrow. I had been chatting to Matt Nicholson about his line of work, decided to spend some time with him in the Events sector and soon realised that it would work well down in Devon. We moved into Events and have quadrupled our sales on a weekly basis! Moving into Events has helped boost sales, and therefore it has meant that our retention rate in terms of our team, has been stronger. We’ve got a small but solid team now which is great. We’re between 50-70 acquisitions a week so looking to raise that to 100 / week and recruit a few more guys.
037
work in a slightly different way to some of the other Owners. Because there’s a cap on the amount of people I can recruit - the upper limit of the business - instead of always pushing forwards forwards forwards, I do the inverse and work on strengthening from the base up. If I can ensure that the person who is making the lowest number of sales a week is still hitting £500/week then I know that the company as a whole is doing well. It’s a different approach, but one that works for us. It’s all relative. I’ve just had 3 new people start working with us, and by the end of July I’m aiming to have a 15-strong company. That will be our maximum, really, and so from that point onwards we will work on branching out, encouraging our recruits to move up the company until they are promoted to the point of opening sub-offices in other locations - expanding out rather than up.
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CATEGORY INTERVIEWS
continued... I guess it’s about adapting the formula and systems that
It’s interesting to see how the mentor/recruit dynamic operates. For
you know work well and transposing them to a format that is
example, over at Monument Promotions, you’ve got Chance working
relevant to your company. As an Entrepreneur, part of the skill
directly alongside Matt Nicholson - the Owner - so from a training per-
set is the re-appropriation of core techniques and systems, to
spective, to learn first-hand how the business operates and to be right
assert ownership over your way of working?
in the thick of it is hugely beneficial for him. I had to learn on a much
Absolutely - I would say it is important to nurture the team that you
more ad-hoc basis, which was useful in a different way. I was certainly
have, to grow the business not simply in terms of numbers, but in
out of my comfort zone, but that can be a fantastic space for creativity.
terms of the developing each individual within that team. It’s about quality not quantity. Some of the other Owners hire en-mass, which to
There’s a fine balance between risk-taking and being reckless,
the outside eye might look as if they are making a much higher turn-
and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone for learning
over; however their outgoings will also be much greater due to the size
purposes...How have you navigated this space?
of the team they have working for them. My company is much smaller,
Although I have taken a risk, my overheads are so low that I know that
but relatively we are doing very well. It’s important to look at the mar-
even if it’s just me, I can still break-even. The risk factor is actually quite
gin, not just the end figure, when assessing sales.
low, despite having opened the office in an unconventional way. Knowing that there is a cap on my business means that I know that I need
Have you noticed differences in yourself? Is this where you
to advance the company by making it very lean. In some ways, that’s
imagined you’d be in your career?
a useful thing. It’s not always beneficial to operate in such an open-
Honestly, no! I worked for a bank before, then I opened a hotel which
ended context and knowing your limits can actually be an important
I ran for 5 years which was exciting, and then I hit the stage where I
part of developing as an Entrepreneur. Be present. Settle in to what
started to reconsider my career. Working in this industry was only ever
you have. It’s not all about the next thing.
going to be a part-time thing for me until I realised the extent of what I could achieve here - I loved the sense of urgency it gave me. I wanted
What keeps you inspired?
to open an office, and what was refreshing was that there was nothing
The last three weeks have been amazing - it’s an exciting time - we
holding me back. I knew I had to engineer myself a career, and a role
made it onto the Bulletin after only being open for 3 weeks. For such
that worked for me, and so I built this company from scratch. Enigma
a small area down in Devon, we are making a big impact. What keeps
Promotions is proof that you can achieve anything if you put your mind
me inspired is my sense of competition. I play lots of sport in my spare
to it, it’s something that I never imagined I would do but that I’m very
time, so that sense of drive and momentum comes from an inherent
proud of.
sense of play and drive to succeed. Competition can be a good thing if exercised in the right way.
How have you found that you learn best? Do you think there’s greater value in learning from first-hand experience, through mentor-schemes for example?
040
041
We head Stateside with Rob from RedSeven
042
CATEGORY TR AVEL / DEVELOPMENT
Stateside Education
'I think it’s important to reward my
E
arlier this year, Rob from
and offer advice. Rob took some of the top
RedSeven
travelled
performers in his team, and they jetted off to
Stateside to deliver a
Florida. I caught up with him back in the UK
programme to various
to hear all about the experience of delivering
Managing
Directors
such a lecture abroad...
of
best
on
how
to
manage your finances.
How do you find delivering something
different
like this? Do you find it nerve-wracking
guys for their achievements, to
countries as a result of the supplier that
or is that where you’re most comfort-
celebrate their work and their efforts.
they use to source new clients. One of those
able?
countries is America. With the company
Public Speaking is not one of my strengths,
having experienced unprecedented growth
but having had to do it for years now - some-
recently, there’s been a shift in the way in
times to an audience of 2000 people - well,
which they operate, so Rob and a couple
let me tell you it only gets easier after that!
of others flew out there to share their skills
I really enjoy sharing knowledge with other
It makes for a positive working atmosphere'.
RedSeven
operate
in
many
people. It can be quite scary, but I think that when you get to a position where you’re able to share your skill set with other people in another country, there’s something very exciting about that. When you are travelling abroad and presenting to a group of people, you are presenting a certain type of self your best self - your most persuasive self. There’s an art to public speaking, and that is a huge part of becoming a successful Entrepreneur. The ability to hold a room and to share knowledge. Who did you take with you and did you find it was a good opportunity to bond? So I was out there primarily to run that topic, but I decided that it was a good opportunity for my company as well - to take others with me and offer it as a reward for how hard my guys have worked. The trip was a great opportunity to get to know them better, for us to bond and to enjoy some time away. I took one of our Team Leaders, Dale Trinder, and also one of our Assistant Owners, Charlotte Vass. Take us through your itinerary... We had two days of meetings, so we got to meet different Business Owners and experts in the industry which was great. This was followed by two days of sightseeing so we went jet-skiing, saw some dolphins - the dolphins were literally swimming alongside us whilst we were jet-skiing! We rented a Ford Mustang and drove to Orlando, went to Universal Studios... it was amazing. Whenever I go away for business, I always like to incorporate some down time for my team. Yes, the business is the reason why we travel, but it would be
043
CATEGORY TR AVEL / DEVELOPMENT
'Entrepreneurship, there is a large crossover in terms of purpose, aligning your purpose in life with that of your work'.
a wasted opportunity if we didn't also make time for sightseeing, relaxing and recharging out batteries as well - that’s just as impor-
'There’s an art to public speaking, and that is a huge part of becoming a successful Entrepreneur'.
tant. I think it’s important to reward my guys for their achievements, to celebrate their work and their efforts. It makes for a positive working atmosphere. We flew business class which with BA which was quite cool - we each had our own bed, champagne...it was a real treat. I wanted to give my team a taste of what the future holds for them if they keep working hard. Obviously it’s not all about material gain, but succeeding in this industry opens up a hell of a lot of opportunity in all aspects of life. It’s nice to be in a position where I’m able to reward my guys for their efforts, to say thank you. Sounds like a trip they won’t forget. Why is it important to you to combine work and travel? I think that there’s a tendency, especially when things are full-on at work, to just talk about the work; a trip away is a good chance to form relationships - working relationships - that are fully fleshed out and robust as a result of spending quality time with each other. With Entrepreneurship, there is a large crossover in terms of purpose, aligning your purpose in life with that of your work. I think that travelling can help support that, but it also gives you a much needed break. It’s important to have fun! Have you found that you’ve changed your methods of communication over time? You get out what you put in. It’s simple. I think that in this line of work, if you are sending out a positive energy, you are making an effort and presenting a top version of yourself, then it manifests itself in your work and how other people respond to you. There are certain meetings that I run, certain interactions I have where I know I
Tracking the progress of the self, alongside the progress of the business
am operating at my optimum level of self - I
certainly has an affect on how you perceive yourself and your confidence.
can track that, I am aware of that, I’m on a roll - the results that you get from people are noticeably better. It’s cultivating those
- ROB COTTERELL-
elements of your personality and exercising an acute awareness of self, I guess.
044
CATEGORY TR AVEL / DEVELOPMENT
'I think that there’s a tendency, especially when things are full-on at work, to just talk about the work; a trip away is a good chance to form relationships - working relationships'.
When you travel, you’re still being
can hold yourself back. In that sense it can
‘productive’ as it were, you’re literally
also be the worst thing about the industry!
moving forwards, but you have the
I would say that a positive mindset and a
time to think, to be, to catch up with
passion for this life is a prerequisite of going
yourself. Everyone is always looking
into Entrepreneurship.
ahead, so it’s important to take the time to ‘land’ and to exercise an element of
It all comes back to self-development:
mindfulness. Do you find that you have
how you develop as a businessman/
the time for this?
woman and how you develop as a
You have to make time. With Entrepreneurship,
person and therefore how those two
there’s always something you could be doing.
align to produce an optimum result,
You never have that satisfaction of ‘my job is
would you agree?
done’, now I can relax. There’s always further
Yes, it’s a people business. It’s face-to-face,
to go. There’s never a ‘good’ time to travel, for
so when you're selling to a customer, it’s
example, but you make the time.
important to be on top form. This extends to how you engage with your work colleagues
How do you maintain a positive mental
as well. The energy I give out to my guys, the
attitude and keep yourself driven?
atmosphere and the company culture that
I think it’s understanding that within this
we have established stems from the manner
industry, if you don’t have that drive and
in which we engage with each other. I try
that laser focus, you’re not going to achieve
and treat my team as I would my customers,
your goals. We don’t have a 9-5, check-in and
in a way. That’s what works for us and the
check-out lifestyle. The best thing about this
dynamic of RedSeven.
industry is that it’s down to you. You have agency. You are absolutely in charge of your success and you are the only person that
045
Universal Studios Orlando, Florida Opened on June 7, 1990, the park's theme is the entertainment industry, in particular movies and television.
CATEGORY TR AVEL / DEVELOPMENT
Making Waves in Mumbai Roddy and Callum explore India
B
ack in May this year, two of
the four of them managed to hit 70 sales. Congratulations
our team members - Roddy
were in order and so they hopped on a plane and travelled
Barker and Callum Wallace
across the globe to Mumbai, India, for a jam-packed week
-
to
of business and pleasure. Whilst there, they gained an
further
insight into the working world of two huge companies, the
afield. We offer a variety of opportunities every year for
first being the firm that manages credit cards for Ferrari,
team members to win trips abroad, and on this occasion
and the second being ICICI, the third largest bank in India.
won
venture
an
opportunity slightly
the task was to reach the highest number of sales during the quarter. The competition itself happened to fall during
To travel with work is possibly one of the most insightful
the week of the ‘Beast from the East’, sending major cities
combinations of experience one can be gifted with. The
into lockdown and blocking off roads as a result of the
shift in perspective, the opportunity to meet and learn
heavy snow.
from others with completely different backgrounds from you, the utter focus and passion that emerges from having
047
Roddy is based in Glasgow, and despite the difficult
a ‘time limit’ on the trip...all of the above work towards
working conditions, managed to beat every single team
injecting new life, new knowledge and fresh energy not
across the UK and achieving a personal best in the
only into the business, but towards the self-development
process. He and his small team showed incredible spirit
of the Entrepreneur. Roddy expands upon this, reflecting
- working in -5 degrees for 11 hours a day - and between
upon the chance he was given to travel even further afield
CATEGORY TR AVEL / DEVELOPMENT
048
CATEGORY TR AVEL / DEVELOPMENT
Taj Mahal, Agra, India
‘Having the ability to travel for work is
a visit from King George V back in 1911, before
amazing. A real privilege. So having the
eventually being built out of stone and used
opportunity to travel to somewhere with such
as an exit for British soldiers leaving India
a different culture, but with an insight into the
in 1947 - fascinating to see. Our afternoon
same industry - the methods and systems in
was spent exploring more of the city before
place - was invaluable. Regardless of how
we headed over to the Raj Hotel, one of
long you’ve been doing your work, it’s still
the swankiest hotels in Mumbai. It truly was
important to take a step-back and reflect
ornate, with marble pillars and designer
upon. Your place in the bigger picture.’
shops on the ground floor, so naturally we headed straight to Louis Vuitton and kitted
To leave one’s ‘home’, to venture out of
ourselves out from head to toe....
one’s comfort zone and into the unknown is rather a big experience, but isn’t it during
...rather, we headed straight to the bar! It
these moments - moments where we aren’t
was then that we heard a lot of commotion
completely in control, where we don’t quite
and saw crowds gathering outside. We
know how we will respond - that we learn the
started to wonder what on earth was going
most about ourselves? We spoke to Roddy
on, and were soon informed that we were
and Callum about their 6 days in the city;
in the presence of the Indian Cricket Team
from the heat of Mumbai to the heat of the
(until this point we’d had no idea we were in
food, the inspirational figures they met and
the company of sporting royalty!). Finishing
the words of wisdom that they brought back
up around 6pm, we were introduced to the
with them....
one of the Business Owners, a gentleman called Kishore, who took us for dinner at his
Part 1 - No Time for Jet Lag
local curry house - it was delicious! Whilst
The moment we stepped off the plane, the
there, we met the top Assistant Owners
heat was relentless. We arrived at 3am,
and Crew Leaders. It was really lovely, and
managed to find our Hotel Rep, slept for a
actually hugely beneficial to meet them in
few hours and then it began! With no time for
a casual, relaxed environment, over dinner.
jet-lag, we were straight down for breakfast
It’s important to build a relationship in an
at 830am and then off out into the city for
informal context. Getting to know someone’s
a jam-packed day of sightseeing. First up
background - where they’re from, where
was the Gateway to India - initially built out
they studied, what has shaped them - is an
of papier-mache to as to be ready in time for
important part of establishing a successful business
relationship.
Interestingly,
the
majority of the team had studied Engineering at University and it transpired that the transferable skills they had cultivated over the course of that particular degree were especially useful in this industry. The openness of conversations outside of the ‘office’ environment lends itself to greater insights; there is more space for discussions to branch out and therefore more of an opportunity to delve deeper into the personality behind the business. It’s extremely important for both parties to establish a connection that isn’t simply based around trade and numbers. The team finished up around 1am, went to bed and were up and back in the office for 8am, ready for their first full working day. Part 2 - Create Your Own Lane Our second day began with as much gusto as the first and we were tumbled straight
049
CATEGORY TR AVEL / DEVELOPMENT
'Regardless of how long you’ve been doing your work, it’s still important to take a step-back and reflect upon your position. Your place in the bigger picture.’
into a Tuk-Tuk and onto the road. Watching how they drive is really how the culture works. Everyone knows where they’re going, everyone creates their own lane (never mind sticking in line with other people, create your own space), honks their horn to let others know they’re there, and most of all never takes their foot off the pedal. There is a constant - if slightly erratic - sense of moving forward. It’s wild, it’s alive, it’s energised, and it works! The roads are actually rather a good metaphor for how the businesses operate over there. When we were in the car for the first time, it was a little bit ‘white knuckle’, our hearts pounding and sweat emerging from every pore. But the second time we were on the road, it was just so liberating and the atmosphere sort of embodiment of where we were ‘at’, in many respects. We were thrown straight into the hub of it all. It sounds daft, but you move from what feels like a neardeath experience, to soon realising that actually no-one is getting hurt around you, everyone knows exactly what they’re doing, and you just roll with it. Everyone was quite apprehensive about the culture shock, the journeys in the Tuk Tuks being just one part of that....but I didn’t have any expectations, big or small, about what our experience would be like. You know, we’d heard that on one side you’d have mass poverty, and on the other side of the street (literally) mass wealth. It is quite a stark contrast, and therefore quite a bizarre context to operate in, but you just have to take it in your stride. Day 3 - The Sales Begin The first office visited belonged to Sukesh and VP Saiprakash. Watching how the sales
Having the opportunity to travel to somewhere with such a different culture, but with an insight into the same industry - the methods and systems in place - was invaluable.
team operated was phenomenal; they would go in with so much confidence and confidence in their ability, it was extraordinary. Obviously
- RODDY BARKER-
at home we work in a residential context, but going into an expensive location and working with high-end clients, and seeing how they use their confidence to ‘gain entry’, it really was inspiring to watch. I think that was my biggest take away from the trip, the manner in which they conducted themselves, the confidence and ease that everyone seemed to ooze.
050
051
' Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone ' - NEALE DONALD WALSCH -
052
CATEGORY TR AVEL / DEVELOPMENT
New Dehli India How the kings in the 17th century used to measure time and seasons.
The way in which you can mould and shape how you present yourself to your clients, the
vocabulary
that
you
choose,
your
energy, your attitude and your confidence, is as important as what you know. You might have all the information, but if you can’t communicate it to other people, then it’s redundant in this industry. This all boils down to an acute understanding of communication, and a strong sense of self-awareness. There is a fine line that lies between confidence and arrogance, the difference being one feeds the ego and one fuels a business. Roddy describes how the Business Owners out there have found the right balance: They truly understand the opportunity that they have. It’s quite a poor country, therefore those that have managed to work their way up, and have been given the opportunity to work in this sector really appreciate it. They really understand the value of money. You hear endless success stories about businessmen moving up and up and up, opening office after office, and the drive / ambition that underpins this success comes from a true understanding and appreciation of the privilege of money. They don’t over indulge. They’re very clever with it. It was very humbling to see. How they run their business isn’t so much about titles - ‘Owner’, ‘Crew Leader’ etc. it’s about the criteria. If you’re hitting the criteria then you’re embodying what it truly means to possess that title. Your level of work is manifested in your actions and it becomes much more than just a Name. The way in which people see promotions over here - where it is about achieving a title actually lends itself to quite a different way of working in terms of progression. It is one that is perhaps more egocentric....whereas, if the title itself is removed, and replaced simply with the criteria required to hit that level of the business, then it becomes less about the glory - the pride in being able to wear the name badge - and more about the work. It’s a much more rounded way of working, more honest and less hierarchical. Part 3 - Sagar and His Team The above attitude is one that is set in place by those at the top, and it was
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CATEGORY TR AVEL / DEVELOPMENT
There is a simple but effective work ethic and ethos and it is this that carries them forwards
evident how much the office looked up to
work like you. Embrace it. Cultivate yourself
with him after 20 years. The business and
Sagar (the second Owner that we met). He
and your skills. Be the best version of yourself
their approach has stayed the same and
was actually very nonchalant in his way of
you can be. Roddy describes the different
has stayed pure over 2 decades. Despite
working in that he simply works hard and
approaches they came into contact with:
the growth and success, the essence of the company hasn’t been diluted.
follows a clear systemic approach. He’s pushing for Organisational Head within the
One Owner was very much about self-
next three years, and believes that if he can
education, motivation, being a Lion in a Jungle
India really was the most mind-expanding and
develop his owners with the mindset that
and being the best you can be, whereas
educational trip I’ve ever been on. It was really
they are working towards hitting a criteria,
Sagar was much more about following a
inspiring and broadened my perspective of
not a title, then the atmosphere shifts and
systematic approach. He concentrated on
the business world no-end. To be there in
the work comes first. Everyone is given the
his transferable skills and wasn’t so focussed
the heart and the heat of it all makes such
same opportunity, the difference lies in each
on an ‘end goal’. It was a real melting pot of
a difference. It becomes something tangible.
individual’s intensity of work.
heart soul, logic, reason and passion - that
You can feel the the passion and energy in
was what made the trip so exciting!
the room - it’s visceral, alive, energetic and exciting!
When we first walked into Sagar’s office he was really laying into his team about how
And then there was Tony Fernandez... the
they had underperformed over the last few
country head of India. He also oversees four
days. He was breaking them down to build
or five other countries. He is such a character.
them back up again and was very open about
He’s kind of like a James Bond which sounds
it. Being slightly awkward Brits, we were
ridiculous but is the best way I can describe
anxious that we shouldn’t be present for this;
him. Everyone hangs on his every word. His
however, he insisted we stay and that it was
way of presenting himself is well crafted, he
fine, it was ‘just the process’. He re-educated
knows how to hold a room, hold his company,
them and every single team member moved
and to ensure that people listen to him...But
from looking like they wanted the ground to
he also just sat there in a t-shirt, a pair of
open up and swallow them, to a state of re-
pink shorts and his leg in a cast in one of the
empowerment. We saw them perform that
swankiest hotels in India! He certainly does
day, and it was like they had come full circle
it his own way. We spent the afternoon sat
- pretty amazing to see.
there eating sushi and oysters and listening to his advice:
India is one extreme to the other - in the UK, it would be very stiff-upper lip, one-on-one,
All you’ve to do is keep it really simple. It all
slightly tentative - but actually their response
made sense and was straight to the point.
to this was actually quite unemotional. It was
He said he knows lots of wealthy people, and
very rational and logical which lends itself
hangs around with some of the wealthiest
to a quick turnaround, (again, no ego to be
families in Mumbai, but really I’d just prefer
dented, therefore a quick bounce back). I
to be in the pub and have a pint’. He knows
think if that happened with anyone in the
himself. He’s aware of the glamour of the
UK, there might be tears and tantrums and
world, but doesn’t get caught up in it. He
embarrassment, but actually to be able to
doesn’t get swept away by the glitz and
take criticism in a constructive manner, use
glamour
it, digest it and quickly move on to move
extraordinarily wealthy and swimming in
forward is a hugely important character trait
high-end circles.
of
the
industry,
despite
being
in a businessman or woman. He said the way he’s always looked at it is Part 4 - The Personality of the Business
that he doesn’t want to be domesticated.
Whilst there is often a clear system at the
He wants to be like a feral cat. If a cat is
core of every successful business, remember
domesticated and he goes outside, he’s not
that within that there is still space for you to
going to last very long. A feral cat can exist
implement your own way of working. Whilst it
in a domesticated environment, but when he
is important to follow a strong format, it is also
goes outside he’s in his element and he will
as important to bring your own personality to
survive. He never sits on his laurels. The first
your work. That is what will stand you apart
two people he interviewed are still working
from the rest. You are you. No-one else can
with him after 20 years. The essence of the
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Festivaks and Travel Section We promote a healthy combination of travelling for work, holding meetings abroad, offering holidays and business trips all over the world as incentives, thereby encouraging an expansive mindset when it comes to sharing knowledge. With offices in Russia, Spain and in the UK, and plans to continue expanding globally, we are strong advocates for developing international relationships and truly appreciate the opportunity for development, not just in terms of business, but in terms of the self, that travelling offers.
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Ski Trip - March Val D'Isere / French Alps
Back in March, we jetted off to the Val D’Isere for four days of hitting the slopes and soaking up the fresh air of the French Alps. It really was stunning, and a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the flying successes of our team. We took a group of our highest achievers, those that we see a bright future in....regardless of their ability on the slopes! Whilst there, we stayed at the beautiful CLub Med Hotel and made sure to indulge in some Apres-ski, as well as celebrating Nina from RedSeven's birthday - a fantastic time was had by all.
The Mantra Weekender Malmesbury / Cotswolds
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To celebrate such a fantastic year so far, we headed to Boondock’s Festival to let our hair down and celebrate the community we have built between us. What better way to come together than to spend the weekend sharing stories over sharing beer whilst soaking up the fresh air of the great outdoors. We spent the weekend camping together, donning our brightest festival gear and dancing until the sun came up over the stunning West Country hills. We were lucky enough to occupy our own section of the festival, with our own tipis and fire-pits; Boondocks is all about finding your Tribe, and we have certainly found ours here . We are a community. We work together, travel together...and party together. We hope you all had a fantastic weekend!
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see you all again next year -x-
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Ibiza - September
Balearic Islands - Spain
Looking ahead to September (and the end of the long summer months woe!) we thought it was important to plan a trip away to soften the blow... so come 23-26th September we will be flying away to Ibiza for a weekend of rest and relaxation. After the heat of the summer, we will be using this weekend as a chance to wind down, cool-off and rejuvenate our minds and our bodies. We will be staying at the Hard Rock Hotel and incorporating some team-building activities into the weekend as well ensuring there is ample time spent in the spa....we can’t wait to share it with you.
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CATEGORY BOOKS & PODCASTS
The Context of the Entrepreneur With
and
world as they share their perspectives on everything from work and
communication at the heart of it all, what better way to ensure that
travel
a
huge
part
of
becoming
an
Entrepreneur,
business to mindfulness and culture. You really do get out what you
you are making use of your train journeys, flights and car rides than to
put in, so start making the most of your time. Be productive and make
broaden your perspectives, increase your breadth of vocabulary and
use of that half an hour off. Sit back, relax, and let someone else do
read! Or if reading isn't your forte, then plug into a podcast and start
the talking...
engaging your brain in new ways. Listen to people from all over the
Grit
How to Have a Good Day
By: Angela Duckworth
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By: Jonah Berger
Everbody Matters
The Extraordinary Power of Caring for Your People Like Family
By: Bob Chapman
CATEGORY BOOKS & PODCASTS
' Listen to people from all over the world as they share their perspectives on everything from work and business to mindfulness and culture '
Never Eat Alone
Podcasts
And Other Secrets to Success, One Relationship at a Time
01
02
03
04
03
04
Earn Your Happy By: Lori Harder
She Did it Her Way By: Amanda Boleyn
The Adam Buxton Podcast By: Adam Buxton
Wired Podcast By: Dawn Marrs Ortiz & Traci Reuter
Exponent By: James Allworth & Ben Thompson
How i Built This By: NPR
By: Keith Ferazzi
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Charlotte Vass
Mark Widnell
RedSeven Advertising
Enigma Promotions
Chance Howie
Roddy Barker
Monument Promotions
B2B Marketing
Dale Trinder
Megan Ward
RedSeven Advertising
Aberdeen
Daniel How
John Lamara
Monument Promotions
Aberdeen
Assistant Owner Lvl 4
Assistant Owner
Crew Leader
Crew Leader
Business Owner
Business Owner
Business Owner
Business Owner
The support network we have in place here at Mantra is second to none, and this is evidenced in the above successes, - just a small insight into the progress we are making as a company. We grow the business from the inside out, and we look forward to seeing what the summer holds. Good luck everyone!
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Q2 Funds Raised UK £2,223,598.95
Office List 2018
CATEGORY OFFICE LIST
Our UK, Scottish, Spanish and Russian office list. Please be sure to visit our social media channels for future developments
UK
RUSSIA
SCOTLAND
Mantra Marketing Group James Buckley / Francis Colam www.mantramarketinggroup.com
JB Company Jasmine Suleymanova Krasnodar website coming soon
We Love Sales Nicci Flynn Glasgow www.welovesales.org
Magic Magomed Parizhev Krasnodar website coming soon
Atlas Promotions Ujla Mohammed / Callum Wallace Edinburgh www.atlas-promotions.co.uk
ZIMA Albina Zigangirova Moscow website coming soon
B23 Marketing Roddy Barker Glasgow website coming soon
Vio Organisation Veronica Ovechkina Moscow website coming soon
Rise Marketing John Lamara Glasgow website coming soon
Asana Marketing Group Aidar Zamaletdinov Moscow www.asana-mg.com
Vertex Promotions Darren Walker Carlisle website coming soon
First Group Albina Fazlieva Moscow www.firstgroup.moscow
Novus Marketing Megan Ward Aberdeen website coming soon
Leela Promotions Aparna Rakesh Plymouth www.leelapromotions.com
RedSeven Marketing Robert Cotterell Swindon www.redsevenmarketing.co.uk
1 to 1 Advertising Mark Twitchin Bristol www.1to1advertising.co.uk
Engima Mark Widnel Barnstaple website coming soon
Monument Promotions Matt Nicholson Swindon www.monumentpromotions.co.uk
Fairview Advertising David Hebblethwaite Ipswich www.fairviewadvertising.co.uk
SPAIN Force Marketing Rebeca Perez Madrid www.force-sp.com
Yuppie Timur Konovalov Moscow www.yuppie.city
World Marketing Radik Kamalov St Petersburg www.pr-wm.com
EMDI Marketing Nelson Pereira Reus www.emdimarketing.com
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“I think it's possible for ordinary people to choose to be extraordinary” - ELON MUSK / ENTREPRENEUR -