Getting Started with Daniel Edwards Owner of i-Prospect

What’s in a name?

I chose the name i-Prospect because it perfectly represents what I do - me (as in I) conducting outbound prospecting on behalf of businesses.

Your position?

Business owner i-Prospect is an outbound prospecting service for businesses that lack the time, staff, or confidence to do it themselves. Whether it’s reaching new prospects or engaging existing clients, outbound calls are handled effectively, with additional options for email and LinkedIn outreach - maximizing opportunities and driving business growth.

About your business?

About you!

I began my career in 2006 as a New and Used Car Sales Executive, honing my sales and communication skills. In 2014, I was promoted to General Sales Manager, leading a team of nine. By 2017, I became an accredited Sales Manager with the VWG group, and in 2018, I played a key role in our dealership securing the Skoda Marketing Retailer of the Year award. In 2020, I was recognised among the Top 5 Skoda Sales Managers in the UK. When COVID hit, I took the opportunity to step back and launch my own company, Easy2Trade Ltd—a platform helping car dealers trade unwanted or overage stock. With continued success year after year, my focus has now shifted to helping business owners grow through effective outbound prospecting.

Why?

When lockdown hit in 2020, stepping back from the fast-paced car dealership world made me realise I wasn’t putting my family first. I wanted to be a better husband and father. Becoming selfemployed gave me that opportunityand it always will.

The light bulb moment!

I joined the Start Club and noticed a common pattern—business owners disliked making outbound calls, despite them being vital for growth. Realising this gap, I launched i-Prospect in October 2024 to handle outreach, allowing business owners to focus on what they do best while I take care of their prospecting.

Who is your ideal client/customer?

I want to work with businesses in any industry that see the value in having someone represent them for outbound prospecting—helping them grow while they focus on what they do best.

Best moment so far?

When I started this journey, I expected it might take time to gain business. But from day one, business owners were eager to learn more and use my services! It was an amazing feeling to know my instincts were right and this was something businesses truly needed to help them grow!

Biggest challenges?

Outbound prospecting is a long game, and I’ve learned that managing client expectations is key. It’s important to set realistic outcomes from the start, ensuring transparency and building stronger, longterm relationships

Benefits of the Chamber Start-Up Club since you joined?

Meeting lots of people in the same position as me. I love the Start-Up Club, Sales Club and the Women’s Networking events. I’ve got to know a lot of my fellow business owners and it makes me feel less isolated.

n Daniel Edwards Owner of i-Prospect

Lessons learnt - What would you do differently and why?

I don’t think I’d change anything I’ve done! I researched before starting the business, I’ve joined various networking groups, including the WCNW Chamber of Commerce, and I’ve splashed out on marketing and business strategy training. The next step for me is to start working with a business coach to help me grow my business! Watch this space!

When lockdown hit in 2020, stepping back from the fast-paced car dealership world made me realise I wasn’t putting my family first. I wanted to be a better husband and father. Becoming self-employed gave me that opportunity - and it always will.