Tell us what your business does?

Flynn Admin is a Virtual PA Outsourcing Administration Service. We work closely with clients, offering them a flexible service they know and trust. We are a small business supporting other small businesses.

Where did the idea for your business come from?

I have seen first-hand over a number of years how small businesses struggle financially. They often spend time on small tasks using up valuable time they should be spending on core competencies. But most cannot afford to have someone working for them. I believed there was a niche marked out there waiting for me to take the bull by the horns. So in August 2013, after the café I was managing closed down, I decided to take the plunge!

Have you always wanted to run your own business?

I’m sure most people answer yes straight away to this question! But my answer is no. It is only in the last two years that I had the confidence to believe I could work for myself. I have to say I love being my own boss and helping others like me!

What planning did you do before you started up?

I researched the competition and knew after a short time like I had suspected, this was a niche market. Over 3 months I worked on my website by signing up for a course with Ann Halloran in In-Tuition. Ann and her team have being an invaluable support to me and other businesses around Galway. I also got some start up business cards printed and told as many local people as I could. Thankfully, I had met a lot of people through working in the café who I knew where in business. I told them about my plans and they immediately thought it was a wonderful concept and took my cards.

Which entrepreneurs do you admire?

Nora Casey – I have watched here on Dragons Den and recently watched her interview on the Late Late Show. She is very determined and focused. Samantha Kelly-tweetinggoddess – I love Samantha I have only known her for a short time but she is someone to be truly admired. She never gives up and has such a wonderful heart.

What challenges have you faced & how have you overcome them?

For me, my business name, branding and my logo was to be my biggest challenge. I wanted to stand out from the crowd and have people remember me. What better way of doing this than by using me as my logo! I really wanted to bring my personality into my business and to appeal to small businesses. I am not targeting multi-national companies and I was very conscious of getting this right first time. I came up with the concept myself and of course had it designed. Things people say to me are. “I love your business name it’s very catchy” or “I love your branding and logo”. I will go to an event and some people come up and say I love your stand and I recognise you from twitter”. It has worked and I’m thrilled!

How have you promoted your business?

For Flynn Admin networking and word of mouth is very important. I choose wisely when attending Networking Events. I promote myself through LinkedIn and Twitter. To date, I have not paid for any advertising.

Are you optimistic about 2014?

Flynn Admin’s mission is to be a recognised as a reputable brand name in administration outsourcing. Our goal is to build a business that clients will see as vital to the success of their business and a viable, cost effective alternative to adding headcount when it comes to administration.

What advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs?

1. Don’t let fear hold you back. What’s the worst that can happen?

2. Listen to any advice given, you can always learn from others, we are all here to help one another.

3. Bring your personality into your business.

4. Be honest, trustworthy and professional at all times. You are your business and its greatest selling tool.

Finalist “Business Woman of the Year 2014”

Winner “Business Woman of the Year 2014”

” Ill do the paperwork you don’t have time to do”