August Talk with Mike Land

August is almost over, we’ve had some amazing weather during this month of holidays, summer fun and for some people time off. How have small business owners coped with the month often known as ‘silly season’?

Today we’re talking to Mike Land, Creative Director of Branding & Design Agency Nickel Design, based in Swindon.

How was August for your business?
August was better than ever; sales were up, and projects were getting larger.

What were your personal plans for this month? Can you give us a ‘tip’ for places to visit during this summer month?
I’ve been planning for growth and pleased to announce that I have a partner. A tip for places to visit… support your local. We have everything from vineyards to historic villages, famous landmarks to safari parks.  

Did you know August 21 was World Entrepreneurs Day? What does this word mean to you and do you apply it to yourself?  
My time is very precious, but I couldn’t turn down an offer to join the board.  Watch this space, I have some exciting news coming soon.  An entrepreneur is someone who has interests in multiple businesses, I can’t invest money into these businesses, but I do have almost 30 years’ experience in the creative industry.

Can you name one business you’d like to give a summer shout out too? Who has gone the extra mile for you recently?
There are so many amazing businesses that support me from week to week. Plus, a network of trusted suppliers, a group of networking buddies, a very special board in Wales… so, I would like to give a special shout out to Lisa West, Green Tree Property Management.

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? 
It’s time to downsize, take a look at the overheads, and finally cancel that unused subscription.  I’m not quite ready for electric, but I’ve made a change… out with the Volvo estate and in with some smaller wheels, nick named the roller skate!

Have you got any events planned for the autumn you’d like to shout about – either that you are running or attending?
I’m looking forward to hitting some business expos in the next few months. And I am finally getting back into some running events… I’m sure there’s a few spaces on my medal rack.

And finally, August 16 was National Tell a Joke Day? Can you tell us a joke and raise a laugh?
There is only one joke guaranteed to make you groan… two fish in a tank, one fish says to the other ‘you drive, I’ll man the guns’.

For more information visit www.nickeldesign.co.uk