In this episode I sit down with Beth Yates, a self-employed painter and decorator, as she opens up about her journey from traditional employment to running her own successful decorating business. Beth shares the real-life challenges of being self-employed, from finding consistent work to managing clients’ expectations, while highlighting how social media marketing has been an important part of growing her brand and connecting with new customers. She also reflects on her experiences mentoring apprentices, balancing work and personal life, and some of her most memorable painting and decorating projects. Beth’s story is a must-listen for anyone in the decorating trade or considering self-employment. The episode wraps up with a fun quickfire round, giving listeners a glimpse into Beth’s personal tastes, insights, and personality beyond the paintbrush.
Key Takeaways
- Beth had no clear direction in high school.
- Her brother encouraged her to pursue painting and decorating.
- She has been self-employed longer than she was employed.
- Taking on an apprentice was driven by loneliness, not financial reasons.
- Beth considers her apprentice to be the best in the world.
- Balancing work and personal life is a significant challenge.
- Social media plays a crucial role in her business networking.
- She was a semi-finalist in a top tradesperson award.
- Good customer relationships are vital to her work satisfaction.
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Instagram: @lifeofafemaletradie_
Facebook: Life Of A Female Tradie
Tiktok: loaftpodcast
Follow Guest:
Instagram: Bethyatesthepainter
Facebook: Beth Yates Decorating Service
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:03 Journey into Decorating
03:08 Taking on an Apprentice
05:14 Balancing Work and Life
07:35 The Role of Social Media
09:09 Awards and Recognition
11:05 Challenges in the Trade
12:11 Learning from Mistakes in the Trade
12:39 The Value of Good Customers
13:21 Creative Projects and Bold Colours
14:16 Challenges in Wallpapering
15:26 Satisfaction in Restoration Projects
16:10 Stepping Out of Comfort Zones
16:42 The Preference for Interior Work
18:01 Travel Aspirations and Future Plans
18:53 The Challenges of Hall Stairs and Landings
19:36 Brush Preferences and Tools of the Trade
20:39 Networking at Trade Shows
21:30 Upcoming Jobs and Customer Communication
25:48 Thank You’s
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