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Bob Young
Million Impossible Warming Up
21 Posts |
 Posted - 16/06/2009 : 08:24:06
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After some months of struggling through one of the most depressing and stressful periods of my life
(excluding 2 divorces) I finally feel that there is a possible future.
This has been a particularly depressing and stressful period for me (like many others) after being made redundant from a job that I committed so much to for 22 years of hard work helping to build the company.
I never realised until now, particularly at the grand young age of 57, how useless you can be made to feel in society once this job and the routine that you have been accustomed to has been removed. Eventually you hit rock bottom because of the struggle to ensure your family’s future and your own. Potentially I tried, like many others, to keep my face known and ensure that an adequate network of contacts is maintained in case there is that job that might appear on the horizon.
I spent months talking to companies and following up promises of possible work, generally with the offer of “ if you can find a solution to this or that problem” we may have an opening, which to all intents was generally a charitable gesture generally amounting to nothing. Although,in some circumstances I was thankful for this because it enabled me to keep busy, but in many cases it was just a case of dangling the carrot and getting something done as cheaply as possible. But when desperate for work it is so easy to grab at anything that comes along.
The question for me was “should I admit defeat and retire gracefully”.
After months of attending the fortnightly interview at the jobseekers desk – which to be honest – is, in my opinion a total waste of time. You appear in front of an individual and produce a diary of what you have been up to for the last 2 weeks and then sign a form. If you dare ask a question you are generally given a pamphlet and asked to ring them as we don’t know the answers.
My turning point (and this is not a sales pitch), I received a call from MI. I was asked what I did in telecoms and I.T., what would I do in certain circumstances, how much would it cost and what options were available. From memory I believe I went off like a steam train with you can do this and that for this cost but then depending on the business requirements etc …etc ….
This was my turning point, I just realised at that moment that no, I am not past it. Secondly, there is a market for someone with experience who can span different areas with enough forward thinking as to the pros and cons of what you want to achieve and how to avoid making those mistakes that cost at a later date, why didn’t I plan this relocation earlier to avoid delays.
Why didn’t I know about M.I. earlier?
I had been so engrossed in looking for that particular job that I overlooked the obvious path that I needed to take.
Well, wake up world I am back!!. I am fed up with feeling sorry for myself and grovelling for the position that will never materialise. Me without work is like a fish without water, i could quite easily end up drowning in self pity. Not anymore. Although most of my redundancy had disappeared it was time to turn things around.
From here Young Telecom was born. Already a registered company called Ytel Ltd., created purely to cover me for available and non-existent contract work. I decided to go it alone as a Consultant, but with a difference I believe companies want service, someone who is there when you require them, someone who has the portfolio and partnerships to provide and look after your business as much as they would their own. I spent 22 years with a company that grew from approximately 30 people to 450, carried out 4 relocations (one internally), managed and implemented on my own the telephony infrastructure for administration and dealing room technology, changed the way the company worked and introduced networking. So over the years the experience had been gained as being a small company has been useful.
Now, with the backing of a Telco/I.T. company who themselves have been well established for 10 years with a very open portfolio. Ytel has positioned itself to assist new and aspiring companies and SME’s with all their infrastructure needs and advice. The important part of this relationship is based on one of the questions I keep being asked “ what area to I cover in the UK” well, where do you want the system.
With the assistance of other M.I. Members and staff, plus the trauma of trying to get something for nothing out of Brad (well I did try and I am sure he has fallen off of his seat on many an occasion), I have started my web site – thanks Michelle, a brilliant job – positioning myself to offer a one stop shop to all new businesses and established SME’s. Presently in the process of undertaking an advertising campaign with M.I. The benefit is that Ytel Ltd will always maintain the independent approach regarding suppliers, but we are also able to take the headache away from companies with just one phone call, therefore enabling the business to carry on whilst we focus on the problem. There are no long term contracts and the service we provide is custom made to your requirements and not to make a fast buck.
The M.I. database has been a useful tool but not just for me as I have already been requested to add products to my portfolio. I believe that the forum is something that if utilised can benefit all concerned. Like any other tool it you don’t use it you won’t see the benefits. Use it and we can all benefit from each others experiences.
On a final note - Ytel do not have a scale of charges as we believe in the custom approach and charge according to the task required. Best of all the initial consultation is free.
Now that I have bored you senseless I will sign off.
Regards
Bob Young
Ytel Ltd
Tel: 08456 250025
http://www.ytel.uk.com
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Edited by - Bob Young on 17/06/2009 06:13:23 |
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John Ensinger
Mi Mod Patrol
69 Posts |
Posted - 16/06/2009 : 10:08:32
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Hi Bob
Had a look at your site and it appears not to be working properly, as soon as i go on all the pictures drop out and if you click own of the items you next the next page super imposed on the front page again no pictures.
Other sites are working ok so think it is at your end.
Sounds good and may be able to put a bit of work your may, but need to read up on your website first.
Please advise when it is ok again
cheers john
ps welcome to the new age and good luck |
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Bob Young
Million Impossible Warming Up
21 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 06:08:31
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hi John,
we have tried as i reported to you, we have tried all sorts of resources to replicate the problem that you are experiencing with the website but cannot replicate the issue.
It would be useful for me to find anyone else who reads this post to let me know if they are experiencing similar issues.
regards
Bob Young
Ytel Ltd.,
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Susan Baker
Million Impossible On Fire
233 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 14:26:01
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Hi Bob
Welcome to MI and I really hope that Ytel is successful for you.
I have clicked on to your website and apart from the first move from the Home page where 2 pages were overlaid very very briefly, I didn't have any problems.
Hope we hear more from you on the forums.
Kind regards
Sue
www.wisesecretarialservices.co.uk
wise@secretarialserviceschesterfield.co.uk
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Bob Young
Million Impossible Warming Up
21 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 15:57:24
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Hi Sue,
Thanks very much - I am determined that it will succeed.
Again thanks for testing the site for me. It gets frustrating sometimes when you cannot replicate a problem and its good to have varied testers because it could be Operating system, code or browser.
best regards
Bob |
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Lynda Colley
Million Impossible Fire Starter
76 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 16:36:48
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Hi Bob, Welcome to Mi. I can empathise with your situation. Both my husband and I were made redundant towards the end of last year, and hey ho we're still joining that queue at the jobcentre (no point coming off until the hours and earnings increase)I have started my own business because, like you I believed I could offer a valuable service. I too have taken a look at your website, it's good colours, nice clear information, but there was a kind of blip. I don't know how else to describe it, I tried reproducing it to give you clear indications but it appears intermittently on different pages. I went onto all of the internal pages, and they kind of hesitated before loading fully, and a couple of times they came up in another language; very briefly same colours, smaller font I think and not long enough to identify, sorry! Don't panic it's just another one of those things we get to deal with as our own boss..
(Don't forget if you haven't already to use the 'Introduce yourself' page on the general business forum!)
Lynda Colley
Out Of Office
Virtual Administration Solutions
www.outofoffice.me |
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Bob Young
Million Impossible Warming Up
21 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 17:00:01
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hi Lynda,
looks like we are in the same club in more ways than one.
We found the website problem this afternoon and changing the images from png to another format. Also the developer left a little bit of code on the first page which added to the problem. By end of tomorrow all will be well ...phew!!
Thanks for the comments on the site i have tried to make it clean and clear. With the developer she came up with the idea and has done a good job for me apart from the - shall we say teething problems -
Will go into the business forum tomorrow and do as you suggested.
once again many thanks for the feed back - it helps.
best regards
Bob |
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Lynda Colley
Million Impossible Fire Starter
76 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 17:03:39
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| You're welcome Bob, I'm learning too! |
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Tim Fitzgerald
Mi Admin
11 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 17:07:47
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Hi Bob,
First of all I wanted to say thanks for your kind words regarding MI and our staff. We are working hard to make Million Impossible the most successful network for our members in the UK and beyond!
Great post and a fascinating story!
I have met with you at the New Business Start up Trade Show in London and have spoken to you on numerous occasions on the phone. You are an inspiration to us all and have a great business and one that I know will be truly succesful.
We endeavour to assist and support Million Impossible members and Bob you clearly understand that the network is not just about generating new business, but by utilising other members skills and expertise can help all of us to achieve our personal and business goals.
I and all of us at Million Impossible will be with you all the way as your business grows and I hope that our members will be as well!
Good luck and Best Wishes
Tim Fitzgerald
Senior Sales Director
Million Impossible
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Jack Gardner
Million Impossible Fire Starter
27 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 18:09:49
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Hello Bob,
good to see you using the forums as a way to promote Ytel sorry i havent i been in touch alot since i introduced you to MI all the i'll be in touch
JG |
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Steven Andrew Simmons
Starting Member
1 Posts |
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Jacey Clark
Million Impossible Beginner
10 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 18:10:58
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Hi Bob
Excellent Story i could really relate to your story glad to see that you have turned things around seeing as adversity is what we are all about, thank you for your support and for being part of Million Impossible.
Kind Regards
Jacey
www.millionimpossible.com |
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Kieran Mark Wood
Million Impossible Fire Starter
52 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 18:11:05
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Hi bob
I know my client John ensinger has been in contact with yourself and he also has a great story hope he has helped you.
Now i would just like to welcome you to the network and hope to hear more from you as you have great experiences that are members will all be interested in.
best regards
Kieran Wood (Million Impossible)
www.millionimpossible.com |
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Adam Cowen
Mi Mod Patrol
53 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 18:11:09
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HI Bob
It is great to see you on the forums. Your story of overcoming adversity and how Million Impossible has helped you do this was a really good read and I hope other members find the site as useful as you have
Regards
Adam Cowen
www.millionimpossible.com
adam@millionimpossible.com |
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Bradley Chapman
Mi Admin
373 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 18:12:04
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Bob
You're an animal! great story great strength and a great asset to MI...I look forward to seeing you on the other side..
Dreams to Reality
Brad
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Neil Hunter
Starting Member
4 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 18:12:14
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Hi Bob
I find it really admirable how you have spoken so candidly about the journey you have had, and have managed to turn things around with our help.
I too have conquered unimaginable difficulties and Million Impossible has also given me a new lease of life. I know that whatever life throws at us if we have those around us who care and want to help we can conquer our trials and help us help ourselves.
If there is anything you wish to talk to me about I am always willing to lend a sympathetic ear. I wish you all the very best of luck in the future with your new enterprise  .
Kind Regards
Neil |
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Aaron Carl St Pier
Starting Member
3 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 18:12:23
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Hello Bob
Your the type of person who has alot to offer other MI members, due to your Experiences in life i believe this has made you stronger and you are an inspiration to myself, i'm currently going through some adversity and find strength knowing that there is light at the end of the long dark tunnel.
I hope you can enjoy the MI experience..
Regards
Aaron
www.millionimpossible.com |
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Ryan Smith
Mi Mod Patrol
129 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 18:12:26
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Hi Bob,
what an inspirational story of a journey that I personally feel with go on to make you as successful as you quite clearly deserve from your hard work!
Bob your business model is one that is a vital tool that members should consider and with the passion and determination that you quite clearly have I feel without a shadow of a doubt you will be rewarded for your hard work!
Best wishes for the furture
RS |
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Beth Chaipand
Million Impossible Beginner
6 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 18:12:47
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Hi Bob, welcome on board with Million Impossible. I enjoyed reading your post and am glad that MI have been able to help you.
Looking forward to maybe swaping posts on here and maybe help with any queries. I'd like to wish you all the best with your ventures.
Best Regards
Beth Chaipand
www.millionimpossible.com |
Edited by - Beth Chaipand on 17/06/2009 18:21:07 |
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Tristan Reynolds
Starting Member
3 Posts |
Posted - 17/06/2009 : 18:12:52
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Greetings Bob.
I was pleased to read your message. It is very satisfying to read posts from members who have found Million Impossible a valuable networking tool.
Best Regards
Tristan Reynolds
www.millionimpossible.com |
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Bob Young
Million Impossible Warming Up
21 Posts |
Posted - 18/06/2009 : 08:40:33
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Crikey!!!!
I didn't quite expect such a response. Thanks to you all for your encouragement and look forward to being active in the forums.
Brad.. me.. an animal!!!
Jack you were part of the reason for me turning things around. My thanks to you.
again, thanks to all
best regards
Bob Young
www.ytel.uk.com |
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David Lawson
Mi Mod Patrol
118 Posts |
Posted - 18/06/2009 : 13:21:54
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Great Stuff Bob - go for it !!
We can all think of a Zillion reasons why something cant happen - its easy, doesnt take much effort, and often many get caught in that trap of constant negative thought and action. It becomes self-perpetuating, and they end up in a rut they cant seem to get out of.
You are a classic example of how to approach and conquer a difficult situation; look forward not back, think of how to succeeed, not waste time thinking of how you failed.
I look forward to seeing YTel [love the name rofl:) ] going "National".
There are many ways of going forward, but only one way of standing still
(President Franklin Roosevelt)
Live the Dream ...... keep looking forward, dont look back, and go for it !
Regards
David
www.actioncoach.com/davidlawson
davidlawson@actioncoach.com |
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Bob Young
Million Impossible Warming Up
21 Posts |
Posted - 18/06/2009 : 13:57:30
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Thanks David,
Its important to be able to handle all the highs but also accept at times there are going to be lows. The challenge here is to be able to handle the lows. Although saying that when (i wont say if) everything starts moving forward there probably wont be any time for lows.
once again thanks for your comments.
Regards
Bob
www.ytel.uk.com
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Jennifer Foster
Starting Member
0 Posts |
Posted - 02/07/2009 : 12:22:11
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Hello yes it seems so obvious once the penny drops that maybe setting up your own business is the way forward..........it has been hard though and I have been in a similar position myself with spliting up with partner, debts, losing job, having no child care etc but have despite all this set up my own business and am loving it. Well maybe I could say that it was because of all this that made me decided to set up on my own.......
So you learn daily and you become a much more effective version of what you were before I think !! |
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David Lawson
Mi Mod Patrol
118 Posts |
Posted - 02/07/2009 : 15:20:08
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Hi Jennifer
Give me a buzz if you want to know how to get the best out of MI, and get things going for you generally.
An offer of help - not a "sell" - there's a few small things that can make a big difference at startup stage, that costs nothing except the realisation that its "that easy" (the technique that is ...).
Then will come the hard work ....... but at least you'll know its work in the right direction, not nugatory effort.
Regards
David
www.actioncoach.com/davidlawson
davidlawson@actioncoach.com |
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From Stess to Reality
