Webrevolve

James Rowan talks to us about his digital agency

James, a multimedia computing graduate, speaks to us about Webrevolve - James' award-winning digital agency.

“While I was still a student I began freelancing as a web designer. In my third year I joined the University of Liverpool’s web team on a paid placement. My freelance work and placement gave me the knowledge, confidence and experience I needed to found Webrevolve.

“I used funding from the Centre for Entrepreneurship to start Webrevolve. I also got a business partner involved who could invest.

“The Centre helped in other ways too. As well as meeting other start-ups, I learnt a lot from the Centre’s guest speakers. Especially about brand design and invoicing. I also found the Centre’s advice about body language invaluable. They taught me how to analyse situations and how to present myself confidently.”

“The key to growing your business is hiring people who will drive your company forward. To grow Webrevolve, I hired highly-skilled staff. Thanks to these team members, we were able to produce great results and secure more business.

“If you’re thinking about starting your own business, make sure you have enough money and enough work before you hire. Cash-flow is one of the biggest problems for start-ups.

“To be successful, you need to maintain excellent relationships with people who can help, whether that’s PR agencies or other companies with cross-purposes. Networking events can be useful if you’re looking to build up your contacts.

“The digital industry is so big. If you’re entering a competitive industry too, you need to stand out. Webrevolve’s unique selling point is that it’s a cross-Atlantic agency. I have offices in Liverpool, London, Minnesota and Chicago.”