Start Up Spotlight: Lynn Furber on how a Brush with Death Sparked a Re-evaluation that Changed the Course of her Career
After 25 years as an NHS nurse, Lynn transitioned to academia before founding Healthcare Communication Matters in 2018.
The non-profit organisation designs and delivers communication skills training to NHS organisations, charities, and the independent healthcare sector.
Lynn helps organisations invest in their teams continued professional development and addresses team challenges by creating bespoke healthcare communication courses tailored to their specific needs.
As well as delivering face-to-face training, Lynn is developing e-learning courses in the hope she can reach a wider audience and have a greater impact in enhancing healthcare communication on a much wider scale.
Lynn’s story of how her business came to be, will leave you speechless.
What made you start Healthcare Communication Matters?
Lynn: “A life changing experience. After mistakenly being told I was dying during a trip to A&E, I was compelled to reflect on and re-evaluate my life. Rather than viewing this as a negative experience, I saw it as a turning point in my life. I decided to take a leap of faith and focus on delivering a service I am passionate about and highly experienced in. I have never looked back.”
Why did you choose entrepreneurship over an employed role?
Lynn: “After 30 years in the public sector, I wanted greater control and flexibility in both my personal and work life. I was also ready for a new challenge. I sought the opportunity to make a difference in a way that aligned with my values and allowed them to shine through.”
What has been your biggest challenge on your entrepreneurial journey and how did you overcome it?
Lynn: “The biggest challenge has been acquiring a wide range of skills required to run a business. When I started out, I didn't know what I didn't know. Initially, I struggled with developing negotiation skills and feeling comfortable in my own worth and overcoming my anxiety about writing contracts. It also took time to establish a clear unique selling point, so I had to work on my branding and marketing skills (which are ongoing). The key to overcoming these challenges was drawing on an extensive network of experienced professionals, committing to continuous learning, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone.”
What have you achieved and what are you most proud of?
Lynn: “I once read that a high percentage of businesses fail within the first five years. I’m proud to say that I’ve surpassed that milestone and continue to do well. But what I’m most proud of is the impact our work has on those we train. When a nurse, doctor, or allied healthcare professional tells me how they’ve applied their new skills in practice and brims with confidence, it makes everything worthwhile.”
What personal attributes do you think have contributed to your success as a business owner?
Lynn: “Being genuine has been crucial to my success. I actively listen to my customers and apply that understanding to meet their needs. Trustworthiness is another key attribute; it helps me build strong relationships and create a safe, secure learning environment, which is especially important given the intensity and vulnerability of some of our courses.”
How do you create work life balance?
Lynn: ‘I achieve work-life balance by acknowledging that there will be times when my work demands intense focus and undivided attention. However, I make sure to schedule dedicated time for myself and my family. I also regularly remind myself of the reasons I chose to start my business in the first place, which helps me stay grounded and maintain balance. I am not hard on myself when I take a day off and set myself ground rules.”
Who has inspired you the most?
Lynn: “Firstly, my partner who set up his company nearly 20 years ago. I have been alongside him on that journey and I am incredibly proud of what he has achieved. He has done this by being fair, open-minded, tenacious, kind and thoughtful. He strives to make a difference in this world of ours. Secondly, I am inspired by anyone who takes a step into the unknown and strives to succeed in a kindly and considered fashion, whilst respectful of others.”
Is there anyone whose help and support has been critical to you as a business owner?
Lynn: “This is a hard question to answer as there have been so many people. My partner has shared his wisdom and guidance; my life and business coaches along the way; a lawyer and accountant and the local business support communities and a team at Keele University.”
If you could give 3 pieces of advice to someone just starting up in business what would they be?
Lynn:
“ Believe in yourself and be committed to learn.
Utilise the business support teams in your local areas; Growth Hub, Business Innovation Centre, Council Schemes, Universities
Be patient and know success rarely happens overnight, you have to work at it.”
Lynn took part in the Get Started & Grow Scheme in 2023 for social media support, which was reported on by Staffordshire County Council here.