Making the Big House Pay

We recently welcomed more than 50 members and guests to North Cadbury Court Making the Bug House Pay seminar which sought to explore the many different ways owners of larger properties could generate a second income.

Alongside case studies of what members are already doing – from wedding venues, environmental restoration, providing a backdrop of for photo shoots and film shoots, and even promoting British Heritage on YouTube – the event, which was supported by KOR Communications, Clarke Willmott and Rathbones incorporating Investec Wealth & Investment (UK), provided practice advice on marketing and reputation management, legal and tax essentials.

South West Regional Director Ann Maidment, who chaired the event, commented: “The subject of how to make the ‘Big House’ pay is one that has been discussed for many decades. We were delighted that the event was able to showcase the many different business ventures being undertaken by members across the south west, giving attendees a new perspective on ideas which could be introduced at their own property. The event was a great success and one we hope to repeat again in the future.”

One of the sessions was given by Anna Byles and Lara Weatherill of KOR Communications on “Communication, engagement and reputation management for estates”. Here are there top five tips on how this can be achieved.

1. Have a strategy: Agree key messages which align with business objectives.
2. Identify stakeholders and timeline: Who is your audience, what do they need to know and when? How and where will you reach them?
3. Be proactive: Raise awareness of all aspects of your work, nurture an understanding of your business and its ethos to generate trust and support for future projects.
4. Engage: Don’t deliver a pre-baked cake. Listen and engage with your stakeholders.
5. Evaluate: Review the effectiveness of your proactive campaign. Be prepared to change and update it.