Case Study: Kevin McCourt Creative Services
Case study
Client
Kevin McCourt, Freelance Graphic Designer
Programme
Cumbria Accelerator: Business Support Programme funded by the Department for Business and Trade
Advisor
Helen Robinson
Rebuilding direction, control and creativity in a long-term freelance career.
Taking stock and looking forward
After years of working as a freelance graphic designer, Kevin McCourt recognised it was time to take a step back and re-evaluate how he was running his business. Freelancing had given him freedom, variety and close relationships with clients. But over time, those same positives had become a source of challenge.
Like many long-term freelancers, Kevin had reached a point where projects were coming in steadily, but not always in the right shape or direction. Client demands were growing, timelines were tight, and profitability was being squeezed by the ever-present threat of feature creep - where projects slowly expand beyond the original scope.
“I was following where my work was taking me rather than controlling the direction,” Kevin reflected. “I wasn’t enjoying everything I was doing and even feeling frustrated with some projects.”
Kevin wanted to take more control:
- To choose the right clients and projects
- To stay focused and avoid feature creep
- To improve profitability and time management
- And to reconnect with the work he truly enjoys
“Working on my own as a freelancer it’s helpful to be able to talk to someone about your business, strategies and brainstorming ideas,” he said. “I wanted to get better control over the type of clients and projects I was working on.”
When he came across a social media post from Helen Robinson about fully funded coaching through Enterprising Cumbria, he decided to give it a go.
“I was aware if I was going to do it it would require me to invest some real time and thought into it but I was ready to see if it would make a difference.”
Guidance that fits
Working one-to-one with Helen gave Kevin space to pause and think: often an area missing when you’re managing every part of your business alone. Together, they broke down his goals and looked at how small systems could help him work smarter, not harder.
“It helped put things into perspective and make them manageable. Focus has been the keyword for me through this process. I have put rules and checks in place to help me work quicker and more efficiently.”
Helen’s coaching style clicked immediately with Kevin’s way of thinking.
“I think Helen has a very considered approach, she listens to what you need and asks the right questions.”
The result was a framework Kevin could trust. It helped him make better decisions about which projects to take on, where to spend his time, and how to protect his creative energy.
Real results
With renewed focus and structure, Kevin began to see measurable results almost straight away.
“My time is much better managed. The rules and checks put in place have improved my profitability. I feel more focused and in control of what I’m doing. The tail has stopped wagging the dog and I’m happier.”
That sense of control didn’t just improve Kevin’s workflow. It reignited his enjoyment of design itself and helped him feel proud of the direction his freelance business was heading again.
Reinvigorated and reconnected
The biggest change has been a personal one. With renewed clarity and confidence, Kevin feels reconnected to the reasons he started freelancing in the first place.
“I feel reinvigorated, I’m enjoying my work and hopefully that comes through to my clients. Choosing to be a freelance designer is a lifestyle choice so it’s important that it’s a pleasurable and profitable experience.”
Kevin’s story is one many freelancers can relate to: the challenge of balancing creative passion with the realities of running a business. With the right guidance, he’s now found that balance again, and rediscovered the joy in his work.
Your business could be next
If you’re a freelancer or small business owner looking to regain control, refine your focus or explore new opportunities, the Cumbria Accelerator programme is here to help.
Contact us today for expert advice, one-to-one support and practical tools to help your business grow.