Business Profile: Blue Stock HR
Name: Rachel Prothero
Business Name: Blue Stock HR
E: rachel.prothero@bluestockhr.com
M: 07933378699
Can you describe your business?
BluestockHR provides human resources services throughoutCo Tyrone and surrounding areas, aimed at small businesses who do not have a HR department or availability to HR services. The services we provide include HR advice, compliance documents, policy and procedures, statement of particulars, contracts of employment, employee handbooks and is tailored to each individual business that we work with. BluestockHR also run monthly training sessions called ‘Journey to Success’, aimed at assisting line managers in effectively and confidently managing their workforce. Topics include recruitment, absence management, annual leave, family policy and employee relations.
Why did you start your business?
I am passionate about HR and the added value that brings to businesses. Having spent nearly ten years in a corporate environment, I travelled to Australia for international HR experience – this was in the hospitality industry. I assisted with the opening of a 4.5 star hotel, recruited over 100 people, and implemented the strategic business plan along with the senior management team. I returned to the UK and my role was predominately around employee well-being. However my partner and I decided to move our family to Omagh, where my partner is from, and raise our family. It was during this time that I knew I could make a difference and I wanted to assist smaller businesses to ensure they had access to full HR services at affordable prices.
What are the best things about running your own business?
Meeting new people and confidently knowing that the service you provide will add value to that business. The hours can be a bit more flexible, which helps with family responsibilities, and watching your own business grow comes with a wonderful sense of achievement.
What are the main challenges facing your business?
As HR is often seen as a nonrevenue entity, it can be a challenge to show how HR can actually help with the customer’s bottom line. But it does, and it also help to protect the business should the employee/employer relationship break down, which really is invaluable!
What advice would you give to someone starting a business?
Do you research, know your market and go for it. Just make sure you know what you are going for! Have your business mission set out with clear objectives and what your business is all about. Know exactly where you want to get to and have a good idea about how to get there. Of course your objectives and strategy may change once you start on your new venture but always have a goal and a firm idea of what you are working towards.
