Carolyn Smith Praises the Cultural Shift Toward Inclusivity

12 Mar 2024

Published in: Black Country Chamber of Commerce News

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The Black Country Chamber of Commerce speaks to the Managing Director of TPSquared Ltd.

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As part of Women's History Month 2024, we are highlighting career stories of women who have received support from the Chamber's Start-Up Business Club and are currently operating their own businesses in the Black Country. Through the 'Women in Start-Up’ campaign we celebrate the significant contribution of female entrepreneurs across both the business and wider social community.

TPSquared are a dynamic team of design led marketeers who build brands, bringing business stories to life through creative marketing.

Introducing Carolyn Smith

I am the proud founder and owner of TPSquared. TPSquared are creative marketeers, building brands and bringing business stories to life. We help businesses raise their profile, reach their ideal audience, and ultimately grow their customer base. We provide straight-forward help and advice on a range of creative, printed, and digital marketing content and collateral for businesses of all shapes and sizes, from start-ups to global brands.

1. How has the perception of female entrepreneurs changed since you became a small business owner?

When I first entered the workforce in the late ‘90s, the term “female entrepreneur” wasn’t as prevalent as it is today. While everyone’s individual experiences are different, my experience back then was that owning a business and senior management roles were primary held by men.

Over the years, I’ve witnessed a positive shift towards inclusivity. We are seeing more and more female business owners and leaders, challenging the traditional norms. In my experience, female entrepreneurs have some tough choices to make, it is hard to ‘have it all’, but perceptions are changing and opportunities for women in leadership roles are increasing.

2. What kind of community support have you helped foster/received as a woman in business?

As a woman in business, I have actively sought a community of support through various channels. Networking has played a big role in connecting with like-minded individuals and organisations.

Collaborating with other businesses and participating in initiatives that champion diversity and women in leadership has been a rewarding way to contribute to and receive support from the broader business community. I actively engage with the chambers and local authority, support The Haven Wolverhampton, and show up for community events like TEDxWolverhampton, and host branding workshops to establish a presence and build relationships. I'm part of female business groups, such as emPower held monthly at West Midlands House, where we share experiences, insights, and support one another.

Through my network, I have been fortunate to meet many female-led businesses and female owners and share my experiences and over a cuppa share some of my marketing consultancy tips or a TPSquared branding workshop.

3. What advice would you give young girls and women aspiring to start their own business?

Believe in yourself, your abilities, and your unique perspective.

Say yes to every opportunity and don’t be afraid to fail. Instead of fearing it, view it as a valuable opportunity to learn and adapt, it’s all part of the entrepreneurial journey.

Surround yourself with mentors and a supportive network of people who have walked your path. They can bring knowledge and expertise to help you make smart choices and provide encouragement during both highs and lows.

Do you want to read more profiles on Women in Start-Up? View our latest news. Are you a local resident in the early stages of starting your own business? Visit: https://www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk/membership/membership-packages/the-startup-business-club/ to become a member or view our Wolverhampton and Walsall support services for free advice.

Email Start-Up Business Manager Alison Trinder at AlisonTrinder@blackcountrychamber.co.uk

To learn more about TPSquared Ltd visit: https://tpsquared.co.uk/

Address: Gravel Hill House, Gravel Hill, Wombourne, Staffordshire, WV5 9HA