Enterprise Nation

I met Jill Ming two nights ago. I was attending an event to speak about the book ‘Spare Room Start Up.’ Jill knows lots about spare rooms and, in fact, just about every other room too. That’s because she researches the history of houses for a living. It’s a great business and Jill is testimony to how you can turn something you love into a full-time commercial affair.

When did you start Building Beginnings?

I started Building Beginnings in April 2006 so am halfway through my third year in business.

What were you doing before becoming your own boss?

I was a senior manager in a Cambridge software house for ten years before moving to Shropshire in 2001 when I took a year out to study local history via a distance learning course at Oxford University. I then did some contract work using my business and management experience and got my first taste of working for myself. The seed was sown!

How did you come up with the idea for the business?

I started networking and discovered all these people with a passion for their business and realised that's what was missing from my first foray into self-employment. I picked up a book called How to Get a Job You'll Love by John Lees and by the time I'd finished it I was a passionate house historian! I realised that deep down I wanted to pursue my love of historical research, social history and domestic architecture but just needed the confidence to turn my knowledge and skills into a business. Lunch with a networking friend convinced me I should go for it!

How did you secure your first client? 

This is where the power of networking really cuts in. I announced my new business at a network group I had been attending for the previous year and secured my first client. I can't describe the joy and excitement I felt on the drive home! I realised they were putting their faith in me as a new business and was determined not to let them down. I found a great story which got me 15 minutes on prime-time TV - not bad for my first client!

What have you found to be the most effective marketing activity?

Networking. It's a fantastic way to spread the word about your business, tell people what you're doing, learn about other products and services you might want to use - and make friends. All the people you network with know what you do and can help you market your business. I also exhibit at county shows to give people an opportunity to look at my work and talk to me. I'm always hoarse by the end of the day!

Are any of your family involved in the business?

My partner is also self-employed in a completely different field. He's my number one supporter. It's great that we can both work from home and it means we have company when we want it.

Which room serves as your home office? Do you know what that room used to be?!

My office started off as a guest room and now has a sofa bed for when we have extra guests. Plus I have somewhere comfy to sit when I've got some tricky house detective work to do!

What are your plans for the next 6-12 months? 

I'm always looking for ways to improve my service and have lots of ideas! I'm attending a study weekend to develop my historical research skills, I've commissioned a fellow home-worker to redesign my house history reports to make them really shine, plus I'm working with a local bookbinder to produce a deluxe option. I'm looking at new markets for my business and additional services I can offer my clients.

Jill Ming talks to Emma Jones  

• BuildingBeginnings.co.uk