Whenever we can, thenextwomen tries to bring together entrepreneurs so they can meet, match or work together.

A while ago, Mirjam Spronk got in touch with us,  an aspiring entrepreneur who had the original idea to create her own yellow pages for professionals and tradesmen in New Zealand.  Her business the Quality Living Network launched a year ago but now Mirjam is looking to grow and expand it. To help her do that, she is looking for mentors, which is why we interviewed her to find out a bit more about her business and why she is looking for mentorship.

Can you offer her useful advice, do you want tot tell her about your experiences with a similar business? Are you her mentor? let us know and we will put you in touch!

How did you come up with the idea of your start-up?

After some research I found that there isn't an easy way to find good reliable professionals and tradesmen online in the city of Dunedin, New Zealand. Most works by word of mouth here but that's changing. Of course there's the white and yellowpages and a few other websites to find businesses but none that offer high end taylor made solutions in quality service. As my husband and I are immigrants it took us a lot of time to find 'the right people'' to help us out on our lifestyle block. This made me think about creating such a site for Dunedin: www.qualityliving.co.nz

At what stage of the start-up are you ?

We've been active as a network for over a year. We currently have 9 members and continue to grow. The website has undergone its 3rd and final makeover and we feel we are now really up and running in a satisfying capacity. It was very good to take a year to start up as this way we evolve naturally into a very organised and comitted network.

What is your goal with the company?

Quality Living ltd will grow the Quality Living network in Dunedin and the aim is to start up networks in Christchurch and Auckland once Dunedin has grown to more then 20 members. My vision is to see more Quality Networks start up right through New Zealand but I'm aware I will need a team to do this so am focussing on getting the Dunedin group off the ground properly. My goal is to offer potential and existing clients the most satisfying service they can find in the areas of Residence, Personal and Relaxation. We solve problems by taking the hassle away which frees up time to enjoy life.

What is your vision for the network?

It's called Quality Living and it's a beautiful network of powerful, intelligent and talented individuals. I believe in them. This network is growing and ít's absolutely unique. I really like that. I don't believe in ''easy way outs'' or cutting corners. Do it right, work hard, be straight up or go home I say. This network is not about me, It's about the members, about joining forces and offering real quality to those that look for it. There's a need out there for caring professionals, for quality workmanship and being genuine. We fill that gap in the market. I know we are onto something and whether we grow this way or that way, we will grow and develop and be known in Dunedin and through the rest of New Zealand.

Why do you need a mentor, for which activities and for which period
of time?

A mentor would be beneficial in offering the experience to help us to grow and expand. We'd focus on the legal, marketing and ''organising'' matters, and a very 'hands on'' approach would be preferable. I would be happy if a mentor could accompany us for a year, it wouldn't surprise me if it would end up being 2-3, as again, these things take time if you want to do it right. And we do.

What type of mentor do you think you need? from what industry, with what expertise?

A mentor who has experience in business management and running franchises would be essential, along with a high practicality factor and a great sense of humour.

What does the mentor gain from mentoring you?

Fresh perspectives and lots and lots of creativity. There definitely will be a lot of laughs and never a dull moment. I can do graphic design work for them as well. The bachelor of fine arts degree comes in handy.

and last.. What advice would you give to others looking to start up their own business looking back at your experiences so far?

* Get some capital together to start up first.
* Research your field (absolutely neccesary) and check out what other companies are doing and what they charge, how they operate.
* Differentiate: find out what makes you different and thus original.
* Find others who excell in things you don't (For example I'm not a financial and strategic planning wizard nor a webdesigner so I have found other people who are.)
* Most of all: believe in yourself and trust your instincts.
* Speak your mind, always be true to yourself and be organised.
* Your success depends on other peoples trust in your abilities and the fact you can depend on their qualities and their willingness to help you. Never forget that. Success is not a solo career. Obama had a magnificent team behind him.
* Always trust and appreciate the people you work with and work for 'the greater good'.
* Things take time... don't push harder then people can go. EQ intelligence is vital.
* Have fun. If things get too serious or daunting take a deep breath or do something silly.