WOMEN IN BUSINESS MENTOR PROGRAM:

Michelle McCallum, Colour Design Studio

Equipped with a 'natural eye' for colour, appropriate qualifications, experience working in the paint industry and market research that indicated a gap in the market, Michelle McCallum established Colour Design Studio in 2001.

The gap in the market indicated that clients wanted 'an expert, in colour, to assist them in creating the right look and atmosphere for either relaxation in the home or image and productivity in the work environment'.

Michelle developed a service to assist residential, commercial and corporate clients in the selection of interior and exterior colour schemes, including paint colours and surface finishes (i.e. tiles, pavers, carpets, bench tops, laminates etc) and artwork. 

She also identified a client desire for 'affordable, privately commissioned artwork' and sources artists to accommodate such requests.

Despite having all the key ingredients to start a business, Michelle needed assistance to take Colour Design Studio to the next level.

In her first year of business, Michelle was directed to the Women in Business Mentor Program by a friend who had researched the mentoring process for women.

The findings of this research showed that mentoring women in the early stages of their business had significant positive effects on the business.

So Michelle applied for and was accepted into the Women in Business Mentoring Program facilitated by ESBEC in Mosman in 2002.

'This was just what I needed to assist me in developing my business - by giving me a sounding board in a mentor. Someone who would be interested in developing my business as much as I was.'

Michelle found the program format very effective as it covered a variety of subjects, which encouraged her to do more research into the weaker areas of her business.

'Having a mentor meant I was challenged in my thinking. I had the opportunity to run my ideas past an experienced business person, to consolidate my vision and make it a reality. Most importantly the process allowed me to 'step outside' the business and 'look in' as a prospect or client would.'

Michelle benefited greatly from the meetings with her mentor, Carol Daunt, who as an experienced businesswoman herself provided the knowledge, skills and support to tackle Michelle's concerns and was able to challenge her ideas.

'The brainstorming sessions we had in our meetings really broadened my thinking. These one on one meetings were a key component in developing my business strategies. If  I hadn't taken part in this program I definitely would not be in the position in the marketplace I am today."

A direct outcome Michelle attributes to the program was writing a business plan that works for her and the business. 'My business plan is a crucial document and focal point of my business. I revise and refine it as market demands change'.

Now operating a successful business Michelle has found the perfect opportunity to network, expand her client list and access continued learning opportunities through various people she met during the program.

Michelle looks forward to the day she will be able to be involved in the program as a mentor herself.

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