Chamber News
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY | Clockstudio
10 December 2024 • Sarah Medcraf
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY!
We caught up with Clare Lock of Clockstudio
What inspired you to start your small business?
I’ve always loved graphic design, studying it at school and then at art college. After working for a couple of design studios to gain some experience and industry knowledge I decided I’d like to try running a studio of my own and get my own clients. That was nearly 26 years ago!
How has being a small business shaped the way you approach customer relationships?
Be interested in everyone you meet! You never know who knows who – I chat to everyone – the person on the plane, next to me in the gym, or at networking meetings. Many of my projects I can trace back to someone I met, even if it was years ago. And many customer relationships have developed into friendships over the years. This is the part of my job I love – meeting new people and getting to know them and their business.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about the products or services you offer?
That using a graphic designer can enhance their business – making them look more professional and maybe bigger than they actually are. Design is for every business, not just the big corporate giants. Getting good design at the start of a business journey is worth the investment and should last a company for years to come.
What do you do to stay motivated and inspired?
Working on your own can get lonely. I have a great support network of people that I can call upon for advice, guidance, motivation – or just a chat. Networking has played a key role in meeting like-minded people, that have expertise in different areas to me. I find social media a great source of inspiration – following other designers from across the world, and spotting upcoming trends – and when to avoid them!
What does being part of the small business community mean to you?
Being part of the small business community is having the support of each other. We’re there to cheer each other on, motivate and encourage, be a sounding board for new ideas – and to listen when things aren’t going quite right. It’s a fantastic community to be part of.