“If it’s something that you are meant to do, do it.”
Jennifer Bicknell of Bicknell Law & Consulting has been practising law in big firms for 23 years. Jennifer was inspired by Seth Godin to create her own business and focus on preventing disputes rather than just resolving them. In 2015 Bicknell Law and Consulting was founded.
The firm helps business owners and managers comply with workplace laws and resolve workplace issues. They also teach business owners how to navigate the emotional and legal aspects of performance management with bespoke scripts, coaching, workshops and courses.
Running her own business gives Jennifer the freedom to invest her time however she pleases. Having worked in big law firms for years, Jennifer was used to the rigid structure of firms. Working for herself gives her the opportunity to invest time in learning and developing new products without the same guilt or pressure that comes from working for someone else.
Jennifer says about the HerBusiness Network that hearing the stories from fellow business owners, presenters, and Suzi helps her learn, get ideas, and find inspiration.
In her spare time, Jennifer loves writing comedic, rhyming special occasion speeches and listening to ABBA.
Who’s your favourite entrepreneur and why?
Richard Branson. He’s brave. He has an idea and goes for it.
Why did you start your business and what gave you the idea?
I had been practising law in big firms for 23 years and after attending a Seth Godin concert I realised that I wanted to create my own business and focus on preventing disputes, rather than just resolving them.
What do you enjoy most about running your own business?
The freedom to invest my time however I want to. Law firms are about billing, and whilst that’s important, working for myself gives me the opportunity to invest time in learning and developing new products without the same guilt or pressure that comes from working for someone else.
What three pieces of advice do you wish you’d been given when you started?
- Charge what you are worth.
- Cashflow is queen.
- Understand the numbers.
What advice would YOU give someone thinking about starting a business?
If it’s something that you are meant to do, do it. Don’t kid yourself. It’s hard work. Not everyone is meant to do it so talk to as many people as you can before taking the leap.
What skills and knowledge areas would you recommend those starting out in business get acquainted with quickly?
Accounting. Budgeting. Marketing. Self care.
What does your IDEAL business look like? Even if you’re not there yet, what would it look like if your business was ideal?
It would look pretty much like it does now, perhaps with one more solicitor on board, to support my desire to change my mix of work to be more “one to many” work.
What problem does being a Member of the HerBusiness Network solve for you and your business? And, how?
I get ideas and inspiration from hearing the stories of, and learning from, other business owners, presenters, and Suzi and Michelle.
Learn more about Jennifer and Bicknell Law & Consulting.
