Following the huge success of our inaugural Grosvenor Business Club, we’re delighted to be showcasing the incredible stories of entrepreneurs all across Birmingham and the wider UK. In this ongoing Grosvenor Business Spotlight we’ll be sharing some of the stories from businesses that choose to call Grosvenor House home, whether it’s for Registered Office Services, Event Spaces or business support we know that our client’s journeys are not only incredible but often inspire others looking to start or grow their business. In this, the very first instalment of our the Grosvenor Business Spotlight, we talk to the inimitable Michael Doolin, Group Managing Direct of Clover HR about his business journey, tips that changed his career trajectory, and the impact that Grosvenor House has had on the development of his business.
About The Grosvenor Business Club
But first – what is the Grosvenor Business Club?
The Grosvenor Business Club aims to be the premier networking destination for small businesses and entrepreneurs aiming to broaden their horizons. This forward-thinking initiative isn’t simply another business gathering; it’s a meticulously designed platform tailored to the distinct requirements of ambitious individuals in the business realm.
Our emphasis is on fostering an atmosphere where small businesses and entrepreneurs can exchange best practices, forge valuable connections, and effectively showcase their ventures. The event provides a unique mix of structured networking sessions, informative workshops, and casual networking opportunities, ensuring that attendees can customise their experience to meet their specific needs.
The Grosvenor Business Club represents more than just an event; it signifies a growing and like-minded community, where individuals are able to come together to genuinely create inspiration and change in business networking. Seize the chance to engage with like-minded entrepreneurs, share insights, and cultivate your business within an environment that encourages collaboration and creativity.
We caught up with Michael Doolin, who attended our first GBC meeting on January 25th, to find out more about his business.
Can you give a brief description of your company?
Clover HR provides HR advice, HR Consultancy and Recruitment Services support to SMEs across the country through its 30 people strong Team of HR experts. We have a partnership focus, which is why we will pair our clients with their own dedicated HR Business Partner who will develop an in-depth understanding of each business and its people. We want to provide all of our clients with support that is local, responsive and flexible, and go above and beyond by offering remote support 7 days a week, including out of hours advice and support.
Why did you get started and where are you now?
I started Clover HR as a one-man band back in 2017. I’ve always felt passionate about helping people and have a business mindset, so HR consultancy was the way to go. Clover is a little bit different in that we provide bespoke HR services and prefer to operate face to face. We’re now a million-pound business with 40 staff and offices around the UK, allowing us to designate a dedicated consultant to each and every client.
What is your daily routine?
Nothing out of the ordinary. I get up, walk my dog, have some coffee and make my to-do-list for the day. For me, each day is different. I could be in the office or I could be out meeting clients face to face. So, it’s important to stay organised. I also like to check in with my staff throughout the day to see how they are and, at the end of it all, it’s nice to relax – be it with a nice cup of tea or a touch of sport.
What’s the one piece of software you couldn’t live without?
As I’m getting older, I’ve realised that there’s more and more I don’t know about when it comes to technology. So, for me, it’s all about embracing the key skills of my valued staff. It’s their knowledge and understanding that allow us to achieve bigger and better for both the business and our clients – and harnessing people’s skills in this way also ensures employee engagement through opportunities for progression.
Every business experiences peaks and troughs – and Clover HR is no different. However, Michael has managed to navigate these challenges expertly.
What are the biggest challenges you have faced?
Right now, the biggest challenges are rising costs and market uncertainty. Back when I was starting out, however, it was resilience. Getting Clover HR off the ground was the single biggest challenge of my life – and I was only able to overcome that with hard work, resilience and luck.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
Count to ten. Whatever happens, in life or in business, if you’re able to take a step back, I can guarantee that you’ll be 100 times better equipped to deal with it. Anxiety and stress are huge problems and it’s important to take care of our minds.
An important aspect of maintaining long-term business success is reasonable goal setting, which is why we asked Michael what he was hoping to do by the end of this year.
What do you want to achieve in 2024?
I’d love to keep growing Clover HR as a successful business. We’re aiming for two million in revenue over the next three years and will continue with plans for nationwide expansion.
On a personal level, my goal is to continue to enjoy and be grateful for each and every day. Well, that and making sure that my 25-year-old daughter stops losing mobile phones!
What would you tell yourself if you could go back 5 years?
Be grateful for every day. It sounds cliché but every day is a gift that should be enjoyed. It’s looking for the little things like the fresh air when walking your dog – and appreciating that every minor setback is another step in the overall journey.
Michael has been working with Grosvenor House for a number of years now, and we have been thrilled to see the growth and success of Clover HR since he chose our virtual office solutions.
How did you hear about Grosvenor House?
I’m constantly on the look-out for new opportunities for Clover HR and came across Grosvenor House online.
What services do you have with Grosvenor House and would you recommend the services to other businesses?
I’d highly recommend Grosvenor House to anyone. We currently use the telephone-answering, mail collection and office space services and it’s been brilliant.
To conclude, can you tell us an interesting fact about yourself?
I once played football with Paul Gascoigne. It was with a balloon!
If you’d be interested in learning more about Clover HR’s consultancy services, be sure to check out their website here. Alternatively, if you’d like to join us for our next Grosvenor Business Club meeting, fill out the form below: