August Talk with Michael Blaken
August has been and gone and the weather is starting to change. It’s been a busy time for business owners who have been balancing work and summer holidays!
Today we’re talking to Michael Blaken who is the Account Director for Optimum Professional Services, an accountancy, property law and wills specialist based in Swindon about how August was for him personally and professionally.
How was August for your business?
We entered a new era at Optimum, as our founder – Richard Mathews – retired and we moved forward with a strong Board of Directors.
Our focus is now firmly on growing our business and also our team, to ensure we can meet the increasing demand from clients. We are currently recruiting for a number of positions across our accountancy and legal divisions, in particular for accountancy apprentices.
What were your personal plans for this month?
I had a few days away with the family so that I recharge the batteries and unwind. We have a caravan, so we like to explore different parts of the UK.
Did you know August 21 was World Entrepreneurs Day? What does this word mean to you and do you apply it to yourself?
To me, being an entrepreneur means being enterprising and bold in business. I became a director here at Optimum when I was still in my early thirties, and along with my fellow directors we have grown the business – which was only set up five years ago - to employ around 25 people, and we are still recruiting.
Can you name one business you’d like to give a summer shout out too? Who has gone the extra mile for you recently?
I’d like to give a shout out to Second Snuggle (secondsnuggle.co.uk) which is reducing fast fashion and creating sustainability in children’s clothing. Plus, it is run by my wife, Ruby, so I might get a Brownie point from her for the mention!
We are in a cost of living crisis at the moment? Is that impacting you at all in life or business? Do you have any money-saving tips you can share?
Inflation, fuel costs and rising interest rates (which affects mortgages in particular) are biting hard. If you are a business owner, our advice as accountants is to keep a close eye on your numbers and plan, plan, plan. Look at where you can save costs, without compromising the quality of the service you offer. The same applies to individuals: look at what savings you can make, perhaps by shopping in cheaper places, cutting down on car journeys and applying careful budgeting.
Have you got any events planned for the autumn you’d like to shout about – either that you are running or attending?
We run regular networking events for local business people and our next is on September 13, from 7.30-9am. Completely free, but do let us know you are coming, by emailing [email protected]
Have you got any services or special offers you’d like to mention
Our first meeting is always free, so we can get to know you and your business and tailor our service to your specific needs.
And finally, August 16 was National Tell a Joke Day? Can you tell us a joke and raise a laugh?
Ok, so it has to be a number based one:
Q: why is 6 afraid of 7?
A: because 7, 8, 9!!
For more information visit https://www.optps.co.uk/
