Emma Grant
Figment Agency

What inspired you to start your own business?

When reflecting on the inspiration behind starting our business, it's important to note that it was my husband, Steve, who initiated it in 2006.

At that time, the agency primarily focused on web design services. However, in 2015, I joined the team as a marketing consultant and, in 2016, I became a co-owner and director, fully involved in shaping the agency's future.

Upon joining, I recognised the potential for growth and the opportunity to make a significant business impact. It was then that we decided to pivot the agency's direction towards becoming primarily an SEO agency. We were inspired to make this shift because we believed that specialising in SEO would allow us to deliver tangible results and drive real business growth for our clients. Since embracing this new direction, we have experienced remarkable growth, tripling the size of our agency.

Additionally, our efforts in the field of SEO have been recognised, leading us to achieve an award-winning status. This success further reinforces our belief that focusing on SEO was the right choice, enabling us to truly make a difference for our clients and their businesses.

What is the best part of running your own business?

The best part of running my own business is the ability to set my own timetable and enjoy the flexibility to design my work-life balance according to my needs. I appreciate the freedom of making decisions independently and not having to answer to anyone else.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced running your own business and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge I have faced is the ability to switch off and disconnect from work. As an entrepreneur, it can be easy to get caught up in the demands of the business and feel constantly connected. To overcome this challenge, I implemented clear boundaries between work time and personal time. I set specific work hours and made a conscious effort to prioritise personal time for relaxation. This included turning off work-related notifications on my phone and establishing dedicated periods of time for rest and leisure. By creating these boundaries, I have been able to achieve a healthier work-life balance and maintain a better overall well-being.

What is your 5 year vision for the business?

Our vision is to generate healthy and sustainable business growth for our clients.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to anyone wanting to start their own business?

When starting your own business, it's vital to learn to delegate, find talented individuals, and maximise your time. Entrust tasks to capable team members, surround yourself with trustworthy people who share your vision, and prioritise high-impact activities. Embrace the journey, learn from both successes and failures, and continuously seek personal and professional growth. By following these principles, you can enhance your prospects of building a thriving and sustainable business.

Were there any key moments during your time at NUBS which ignited your entrepreneurial spirit? 

Involvement in the more hands on modules including Business Enterprise and Marketing Consultancy modules.

Since 2006, Figment has been successful in working with business owners and marketing managers to generate more enquiries and increase sales. We're dedicated to sharing their vision for success and are willing to go the extra mile to deliver the results that truly matter to them. In recognition of our excellence, Figment recently won a prestigious UK Search Award. Figment stands out with its forward-thinking approach, keeping us ahead of the game and enabling our clients to achieve top Google rankings. We value transparency and provide a personalised service that ensures they are always informed and involved. With a stellar 5-star reputation, Figment is the trusted choice for their business.

Awards

Winner - UK Search Award 2022

Finalists in European Search Awards 2022

Kingston Borough Business Awards 2021 - winners of Digital, Marketing and Social Media Award