Members Profile
 Name: Ruth Barnard
Business Name: Purple Chameleon
Address: 55 Ashwood Drive, Ashwood, VIC
PC: 3417
Mobile: 0411 889283
Email: ruth@purplechameleon.com.au
Web Address: www.purplechameleon.com.au
SELF
Q. Tell us something about you – your philosophy, your lifestyle, your ethics, your hobbies etc.
A. I moved to Melbourne with my husband in Jan 1999 having previously lived in the UK. I
am a very down-to-earth, approachable, compassionate person, love children and animals and cannot abide cruelty of
any kind. I believe that we were put on this earth for a reason and we have the power to change things - we
just need the drive and determination to do so. I enjoy spending time with my husband, daughter and close
friends, work out at the gym because I know it’s good for me and potter in the garden when the weather is
good. I love the relaxed Australian lifestyle and am sometimes blown away by the generous hospitality of its
people. We have no family in Australia and our friends and neighbours are an important part of our lives.
BUSINESS DETAILS
Q. What is it that your business does?
A. Purple Chameleon Communications provides a range of marketing communication services to small to
medium sized businesses. These include (but are not limited to) writing and editing a range of communication
material (newsletters, direct mail, web content, annual reports, etc) for use in both hard copy and online
formats; researching and writing feature articles for publication in magazines and newspapers; public
relations services which includes researching and planning PR opportunities and writing and implementing PR
proposals.
Q. Do you work from home? How many do you employ?
A. I am a sole trader and work from home.
Q. How long have you been in business?
A. I’ve been contracting my services since 2004. Before starting my family in 2002, I worked
for many years in marketing communications, both in the UK and Australia. I registered my new business name,
Purple Chameleon Communications in November 2008 and set up a website early 2009.
Q. What makes your business unique?
A. I offer a low cost, personalised service and I’m only happy when the customer is happy.
MARKETING
Q. What is the most important Marketing/Networking tool/strategy your business has had success with?
A. Purple Chameleon Communications is still in its infancy and I’m gradually building up a network
of contacts that may need my services in the future. I’ve had some success from friends who work
for small businesses that need help with their marketing communications. So networking is definitely the low
cost way to expand your business.
AWARDS
Q. Has your business been nominated for, was a finalist in, or won any awards or other commendations?
A. Not yet!
ADVICE
Q. What is the most helpful piece of advice you could give to other businesses?
A. Don’t be afraid to ask for help – particularly if you are struggling with something that someone
else can do that saves you time, money and…stress!
SUPPORT
Q. What is it you are looking for as a member of MCEI?
A. I’m looking to help other small business owners solve problems by providing marketing
communications that meet a particular need. Hopefully this will help their business grow and prosper so that
they too can help others…grow and prosper! I’m also looking for a supportive network of individuals who are
small business owners like myself so that we can reach out to each other for help and advice.
Q. What is it you can offer to MCEI members?
A. Personalised, low cost marketing communication services. Advice and support.
Joint venture opportunities ie with graphic designers, website designers and other businesses that provide services
that complement my business.
Q. How do you envisage demonstrating your support and loyalty to the association of MCEI?
A. Attending workshops and networking events where I can learn from others and offer advice and
support.
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