Reflections from the Royal Business Fair

Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce 's Royal Business Fair brought together hundreds of businesses from across the region to network, make new contacts and share best practice. Sponsored by Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, the event at the Town House last month also featured thought-provoking seminars from Neil Davis, managing director of 3D Facilities Support, Greater Birmingham Chambers president and Forensic Pathways CEO Deb Leary, Paralympian Darren Harris. Here, Chamber president Phil Arkinstall reflects on some of the lessons learned from the speakers.

It was fantastic to hear from all three speakers about their journeys in business and have their views on the challenges and advice they would give now looking back.

We began with the thoughts of Neil Davis, of 3D Facilities support, a facilities management company based on Reddicap Industrial Estate and winners of the 2023 Sutton Coldfield Small Business of the Year at our awards in February of this year.

The has also undergone significant growth in the last three years, now employing over 30 people.

Neil made key points about the importance of customer care and embracing young people 's interest in working with new technology, as well as ensuring your staff are connected to the business.

“Customer care and client focus is pivotal in being successful, ” he said. “Treat your customers as partners, understand the challenges they face and advise on how your business can help them.

“Let the young people in your business embrace technology and use the benefits it brings to your business in terms of client management, data and work management.

“As a family business we also recognise that the relationships with our staff across the business are vital, give them the freedom and support they need and your employees will repay that faith with hard work and commitment to the business. ”

Deb Leary referenced communication with clients and the benefits of working with universities to help develop products.

It was also fascinating as a business owner to hear her talk about being confident in your ability as a leader - something we can all learn from.

She said: “Even if it is bad news or a negative conversation, communication with your clients is vital.

“If you have that open channel and your clients know they can speak to you and be kept up to date then this is really important.

“Working in the tech industry collaborating with universities is something as a business we have always done, getting the benefit of student 's knowledge, ideas and technical understanding of our processes has been incredibly valuable.

“Also as a leader I have always told myself to be confident and rely on your knowledge and ability. You know your answer is right most of the time, I started with nothing and building a business should give you that confidence. ”

Finally, Darren Harris inspired delegates who had attended the seminar with an honest and frank presentation on his journey.

Darren is a dual Paralympian and England 's most capped and decorated blind footballer.

He agreed with Deb 's views on confidence, while also noting how keeping your emotions in check as a business leader is a positive.

“No excuses, I truly believe if you want to create a million-pound business then you can do it with the right attitude.

“It is important though for you to also ensure you keep your emotions in check as a business leader.

“When things don 't go our way it 's a strong skill to take it in your stride and not let it affect your mindset.

“The quote I regularly use is 'Your eyes are useless unless you use the things that are surrounding them '. People will help and support you on your journey. ”

The Royal Business Fair was supported by Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council.

Cllr Mark Roberts, of Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, said: “Reflecting on the inspiring stories shared by our speakers at the Royal Business Fair, I am reminded of the immense power of determination, innovation, and resilience in achieving success.

“As a host and sponsor of this event, I am humbled by the valuable insights provided by Neil, Deb, and Darren.

“Their journeys in business exemplify the importance of customer care, embracing technology, effective communication, and unwavering self-confidence as leaders. Let us all remember to stay focused, keep our emotions in check, and seek support from those around us.

“With the right attitude and determination, there are no excuses to reaching new heights in our endeavours. As we move forward, let us apply these valuable lessons and continue striving for excellence in our businesses and beyond. ”

Pictured: Cllr Mark Roberts, Deb Leary, Darren Harris and Neil Davis