Business Articles

TIYB Interviews RedTiger Design

February 2006 - TIYB Interviews RedTiger Design



This Is Your Business's Site Editor - Glenn Watson interviews Alex Ward - Creative Director of RedTiger Design


TIYB
You're coming up to your 5th business anniversary - What motivated you to launch Red Tiger Design?

RedTiger
It was instinct; I'd grown up with a strong creative fire in my belly and an instinctual passion to run a business. There was no reason for me to believe in a destiny of running a successful company, but nevertheless I felt it. After the commercial interest in my personal work, I felt it a 'natural progression' to start Red Tiger.

TIYB
How have the goalposts moved, and have these movements hindered or strengthened your business growth?

RedTiger
As with any business, the first two years were unsettled turf where the goalposts were moved so frequently. When Red Tiger first started business dipped after 6 months and I was forced (the correct use of this word!) into full-time employment for a good while. This obviously was a major hindrance, but it only made me personally and Red Tiger stronger. Everything strengthens growth, it's just the way you look at it that hinders things.

TIYB
How important was teamwork/collaboration?

RedTiger
Very! It didn't take long to realise I needed to form a network of people so Red Tiger could offer a single-point solution for clients. At this stage in the business, we now have a strong network of contractors, affiliates and consultants that we call-on whenever the need arises. This year will also see the forming of a full-time team in-house as we take on staff. This can only improve the team environment we have already.

TIYB
Young Entrepreneurs have access to more advice than ever before. Do you think this information will reduce the number of businesses failing in Y1?

RedTiger
Yes and no! There are still vast amounts of people without the required dedication, morals or drive going into business which can flood a market and turn its reputation (the web and logo design industry for instance). The advice available is fantastic, but people still need to realise they can't just start a business and sit back while the notes roll over their laps. With so many businesses now than 10 years ago, you have to be strong enough to stand the current and have enough passion and integrity to do what you do, do it well and in an honest and decent way.

TIYB
What business planning tips would you like to pass on?

RedTiger
Create a marketing plan! People waste thousands on misguided, mis-targeted and poorly timed (couldn't think of another 'mis') marketing. If you do a plan, you stick to budgets, timescales and think things through.
 
TIYB
What business red tape (if any) prevented you from growing or starting earlier than you did?

RedTiger
Actually I wouldn't say there was much red tape that did cause problems. Thankfully I'm of the business era when the government has regulated itself into providing friendly and approachable advice! Personally I'd encourage MORE red tape in the Business Names areas, I think people deserve unique names and to have it protected without becoming incorporated.
 
TIYB
Do you think the cost of compliance is restricting growth in small businesses?

RedTiger
Yes, but not in our industry. I think the manufacturing industries are the ones suffering from compliance, it's rising their costs and pushing work out of the country. The situation went critical some time ago and I seriously think the government needs to address the issue of exported work.
 
TIYB
What does the next 12 months hold in store for you?

RedTiger
Expansion, more work, awards and further market penetration! The big step is the acquisition of offices and staff in April/June. It's a move I've been wanting to take for years, but took my time to ensure our growth was a solid one. Now, with our market penetration working faster than expected, more work than you can shake a stick at and a fantastic reputation, we're in the perfect position to expand with confidence.
 
TIYB
You're passionate about branding - a vital component in a business, and have written several quality articles on this subject. What do you perceive is the biggest branding mistake a small company can make?

RedTiger
Thank you! Apart from not actually having a brand (yes, that DOES actually happen!), I would say it would be to give it to a business that doesn't have the abilities to cope with it. Before letting someone play with, or create your brand, you need to make sure they are capable first. Not doing things properly is the fast-track way to damaging your brand and in doing so, directly damaging your business.

TIYB
If there was 1 piece of advice that you would like to be remembered for expressing, what would it be?

RedTiger
Be confident in your objectives, love your colleagues and your staff, dote over your clients and never, EVER, give up.

About RedTiger Design

 

 

All articles reproduced with permission from This Is Your Business