Nigel Anderson

Nigel Anderson took a real gamble when he set up AVM Vehicle Movements delivering cars and vans around the UK. After looking for help in all the obvious places without much success, Nigel got in touch with the Enterprise Team.

This is Nigel Anderson’s story…

1. Why did you want to start your own business?

   I had often thought of starting my own business and being my own boss. Once I was made redundant the thought became an ambition and a goal, I wouldn’t have been able to face the ‘what if’ in 10 years’ time if I hadn’t! So, I decided to give it a go and not have to regret not trying.

2. What was the deciding factor for you?

   The deciding factor for me was the lack of help I received from the Job Centre, who basically told me they couldn’t help until I was actually made redundant, rather than prevent it from happening. Not wanting this to happen, I took the leap into starting my own business.

3. How did you get the business off the ground?

   I just decided to go for broke with getting the business up and running and I never looked back. I worked hard and it felt great to know that I had made the effort. The Enterprise Team helped with guidance on the business plan and funding sources.

4. Best bits about working for yourself?

   I believe the best bits are seeing the results of your own hard work. You definitely get out what you put in, even working through the blips.

5. What have been the biggest challenges so far?

   When setting up the business I found it difficult to get people to believe in me and my idea. You have to learn to trust people and that not everyone is bad. Once the business was underway, it was then difficult to get regular work and getting people to pay.

6. What would you have done differently if you could go back?

   The main change that I would make would be to get more money behind me. This would have made things easier and given me a longer period of security in the early stages.

7. How does it feel to be your own boss?

   I love being my own boss and it’s a great feeling which has given me more self-confidence and made me a better person generally.

8. A piece of advice for those thinking about starting up?

   The most important piece of advice I can give is to talk to people and network with others in the same field. Not going into a business blind is the most essential starting point, so seek advice from other business owners to use positively, for example to avoid similar mistakes others have made..

Top