The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
The ‘accidental’ boss built website business
Each week we ask small businesses key questions. This week we speak to Val McLennan, director of Lossiemouth firm Digital Routes Scotland
Q. How and why did you start in business?
A. I didn’t actually start the company and never expected to run my own business. It just sort of happened. I joined the firm in 2002 and six years later was managing director.
Digital Routes merged with Data Converters, another local business specialising in e-learning, and together we made a great team. Since then, we have built an excellent reputation for highquality work and attention to detail, and are proud to still work with many clients who have been with us since the very beginning.
I love my work, in particular working closely with my clients to deliver online solutions for their businesses.
Q. How did you get to where you are today?
A. Hard work. When I took over the business it had to reinvent and diversify, so there were long hours of acquiring new clients and keeping existing ones happy. It was and remains a key aim of Digital Routes to build a healthy client base who like what we do and the support we provide. We don’t just build websites – we continue to work with clients to ensure their online presence is working for them now and into the future. Anyone can build a website, but building a website that ranks in the search engines does require knowledge and skill.
Q. Who helped you?
A. One of the best things I ever did for the company was join the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). It was a helpful hand through the early years, and during the difficult
trading climate of Covid its assistance in identifying different help available has been invaluable. I cannot recommend it highly enough. Q. What has been your biggest mistake?
A. I often say it was taking the company on. My family were very young and it was a huge learning curve for them for mum not to be at home. But my husband disagrees and says I thrive on the challenge – and a challenge it has been. Even my children tease me and say they were glad I wasn’t home to make dinner as my cooking is really bad.
Q. What is your greatest achievement?
A. Definitely my family, but I am also very proud of what I have achieved in my professional life.
It’s an exciting career, as new technology and developments mean you always have to be ahead of the game.
I am also very passionate about where I live and the local business community, so am very proud of my involvement in Lossiemouth Business Association and driving forward local initiatives to promote the town as a place to live, visit and holiday.
Q. If you were in power in government, what would you change?
A. The government’s approach to smaller firms. It is a challenge for any small business to stay abreast of changing legislation.
They don’t have the luxury of employing “professionals” to undertake this on their behalf.
This is another area where FSB membership comes in very handy.
Q. What do you still hope to achieve?
A. I still strive for a good life/ work balance after nearly 20 years, but I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t really enjoy it.
Q. What do you do to relax?
A. Living in Lossiemouth I love the beach so really enjoy walking my dog and having fun with my two small grandchildren.
Q. What are you reading, listening to or glued to on the TV?
A. I love to read, and will read anything. Currently, I’m reading The Templar Legacy by Steve Berry. It’s the first of nine books so the whole series may take a while.
Q. What do you waste your money on?
A. I’m not really a spender; I leave that to my husband who does a very good job for both of us.
Q. How would your friends describe you?
A. Caring, supportive and good fun to be around, I hope.
Q. What would your enemies say about you?
A. I can be ruthless and unforgiving, or so I am told. Q. What do you drive and dream of driving?
A. I just drive what my husband buys. As long as it gets me from A to B, with the dog and some little people in the car, I’m not too fussy. However, I do prefer if it’s not too new and shiny.