“It quickly highlighted the gaps in my business knowledge, but instead of feeling overwhelmed, I found support, training, and real strategies to close those gaps.”
Amy Bent is a graphic designer and visual communicator who transforms corporate and government communications into powerful messages that connect and resonate through the use of graphic design and visual communication techniques for over 20 years.
Amy realised it was time to leave the corporate world when it became clear that the traditional career path didn’t align with what truly drives her. Amy thrives on solving complex, messy problems directly with clients, not managing the people who do. And while climbing the corporate ladder has its place, it was never her goal.
Coming from a long line of entrepreneurs and problem-solvers (and having run her own business before) striking out on her own wasn’t a leap into the unknown. It was a return to a way of working that fits Amy best. One that lets her stay close to the work she loves, while creating more flexibility and opportunity on her own terms.
Amy says about joining the HerBusiness Network “It has been a game changer for me. It quickly highlighted the gaps in my business knowledge, but instead of feeling overwhelmed, I found support, training, and real strategies to close those gaps. Being surrounded by like-minded women who are navigating (or have already overcome) the same challenges has been both inspiring and empowering.”
Who’s your favourite entrepreneur and why?
No one person in particular. I admire anyone who takes control of their own destiny.
Why did you start your business and what gave you the idea?
I realised it was time to leave the corporate world when it became clear that the traditional career path didn’t align with what truly drives me. I thrive on solving complex, messy problems directly with clients, not managing the people who do. And while climbing the corporate ladder has its place, it was never my goal.
Coming from a long line of entrepreneurs and problem-solvers (and having run my own business before) striking out on my own wasn’t a leap into the unknown. It was a return to a way of working that fits me best. One that lets me stay close to the work I love, while creating more flexibility and opportunity on my own terms.
What do you enjoy most about running your own business?
The freedom to choose the work I take on, the clients and people I work with, and the ability to explore new business ideas as they pop up.
What three pieces of advice do you wish you’d been given when you started?
- Surround yourself with like-minded people. I didn’t understand the importance of this until I left my corporate life. HerBusiness has been brilliant for this.
- Understand cashflow. It was not something I properly understood when I started my first business but it was certainly a mistake I made sure not to repeat in my second!
- It’s okay to have some downtime. Your business won’t disappear in a puff of smoke if you go on leave for a week or two. Just plan for it and manage your clients’ expectations.
What advice would YOU give someone thinking about starting a business?
DO IT! There will never be a perfect time and there will always be an element of risk to it. Be realistic about the risks and find ways to mitigate them but don’t let them hold you back.
I started my second business with some savings behind me (which I didn’t do with my first business) and it really helped me feel more comfortable at the start when there is more money flowing out of the business than in. Read Profit First! It totally changed my approach to managing my money.
What skills and knowledge areas would you recommend those starting out in business get acquainted with quickly?
Understanding your finances and having a clear plan for winning new business is essential. I asked a colleague recently how she planned to market her new idea, and she said, “Build it and they will come.” If only it were that easy!
What does your IDEAL business look like? Even if you’re not there yet, what would it look like if your business was ideal?
Thanks to the consistent income from my online course, I no longer have to chase design projects just to pay the bills. Instead, I get to choose client work that truly inspires me—projects that spark curiosity or align with my values. It also gives me the space to pursue new ideas and business opportunities that excite me and expand my impact.
What problem does being a Member of the HerBusiness Network solve for you and your business? And, how?
Joining the HerBusiness network has been a game changer for me. It quickly highlighted the gaps in my business knowledge, but instead of feeling overwhelmed, I found support, training, and real strategies to close those gaps. Being surrounded by like-minded women who are navigating (or have already overcome) the same challenges has been both inspiring and empowering.
Learn more about Amy and AmyBent.com .
