FAQs

Growth Through Knowledge is a trading name used by Nicole Reilly, who began operating as a sole trader in 2005.

I have a trusted network of strategic partners that I call upon to provide deep specialist support when clients need it.

These specialists have relevant qualifications, experience and a proven track record in delivering results.

I do NOT outsource work. 

Visit the Contact page to message me or schedule a call for your preferred date, time, and location.

You can also use WhatsApp to contact me, and Growth Through Knowledge has a presence on all the main social media channels—relevant links are in the footer of this website.

GoCardless is a service that facilitates direct debit payments, is authorised by the FCA and is GDPR compliant.

Once you have set up a flexible Direct Debit mandate with Growth Through Knowledge, your future payments can be collected automatically (even if dates or amounts change).

Payments are automatic, so you won’t get chased for payments, and there’s no risk of late payment fees. You set up payment once; after that, it’s taken automatically on the invoice due date. There is no need to set diary reminders or log into your Internet banking to make a payment.  

Email notifications will keep you informed before any payments are taken. Paying through GoCardless makes your payment predictable, making it easier to budget for services.

Any payments collected via Direct Debit are protected by the Direct Debit Guarantee scheme, meaning you are guaranteed a refund if any fees are taken in error.

Stripe is a payment service provider that lets businesses accept credit and debit cards.

Stripe has been audited and certified as a PCI compliance Level 1 service provider, which means it has to undergo an annual compliance report and routine security scans and tests.
 
Stripe encrypts all customers’ credit card numbers and stores decrypted information separately, which means it can’t see your card number without taking extra steps.
 
The U.K. Financial Conduct Authority has authorised Stripe PSP as an electronic money institution; it does not offer any form of deposit or savings account.

A subscription allows you to pay a monthly fee for some of my services.

Billed on the 1st of each calendar month, subscriptions continue on a rolling basis unless cancelled (30 days notice required).

Subscription payments are made by direct debit, and you’ll need to sign a mandate from GoCardless.

We’ll start with a Discovery Call, during which you can tell me more about your goals.

I’ll ask you some key questions, suggest how to move things forward and offer to prepare a Proposal that documents what we’ve discussed and outlines the costs involved.

I’ll then answer any questions you have; once you’re satisfied and ready to get started, you’ll need to sign an Agreement and pay a deposit so I can get to work. 

Further payments will be due in instalments per the schedule outlined in the proposal—based on milestones reached or deliverables provided. Direct debit will be used for these payments, and you’ll need to sign a mandate from GoCardless to set them up.

This approach ensures you’re fully informed and can make decisions with confidence.

Yes, remote service delivery has proved to be the most efficient and cost-effective method for the clients I work with, especially if they are based overseas. 

Building and maintaining trust with my clients is essential. Regular updates, proactive communication, and high-quality work strengthen client relationships.

I value transparent and timely communication and use regular check-ins, video calls and collaboration tools to maximise efficiency and effectiveness. Documentation and regular reporting are provided to inform clients about progress and financial insights. A streamlined reporting process is vital to maintain transparency.

I use cloud-based software and tools to access data, manage tasks, and collaborate effectively. I also use virtual meetings and shared project boards to ensure that those working with you can access all the information they need to deliver excellent service.

Growth Through Knowledge is registered with the ICO. For the purposes of the applicable Data Protection Laws, Nicole Reilly is the “data processor”.

My pricing strategy is designed to be fair and transparent, aligning with the level of expertise and quality of work I provide.

Pricing IS influenced by the amount of time dedicated to your project or service, but it is not the only factor.

A comprehensive package with a broad scope of services will be priced differently from a limited offering.

More complex or specialised tasks will be priced higher due to the required skill and experience.

The industry and market rates for similar services in a particular region or sector also play a role. I conduct market research to ensure my rates remain competitive.

Tailoring services to meet your needs may result in customised pricing to accommodate any specific requirements or high demands.

Additional Services and Extras like priority support or training will be priced separately.

Other providers may offer different pricing models, and it is your choice as to which one works best for you.

I’m often asked what I think are the “best” digital apps and tools for running a small business.

So, I’ve collated my go-to apps and tools for running a small business and will continue adding to this list as I find new ones to recommend.