How Mentoring Can Grow Your Business
For Jenine Kerr, building a thriving business in Ōtautahi Christchurch has been a challenging yet rewarding journey. After starting Nine Healing Arts, a holistic wellness business, Kerr faced the reality of restarting from scratch.
"I create events to help recalibrate your nervous system," she explains. Offering everything from Thai Yoga Massage to Sound Healing and ‘Gong Baths’, it’s a business deeply rooted in holistic wellness. However, getting back on the ground in her hometown of Christchurch after being away for 15 years posed unique challenges.
Kerr’s entrepreneurial journey began in Berlin with Nine Yoga, a nomadic yoga studio. But after returning to New Zealand and taking time off to care for her son, she needed support to get back on track. A recommendation from a friend led her to Business Mentors New Zealand, where she found guidance that made a real difference.
“Working with a business mentor has been a game changer,” Kerr says. “My mentor, Katherinne Jaimes, has been flexible and supportive, helping me focus on the basics of running a business and marketing it effectively."
Jenine Kerr, Nine Healing ArtsWorking with a business mentor has been a game changer. My mentor has been flexible and supportive, helping me focus on the basics of running a business and marketing it effectively."
One of the most valuable outcomes of their work together was clarifying her business’s direction. "Katherinne helped me map out my services, finances, and ‘why.’ I’m creative by nature, so numbers weren’t my strength, but now I have a clearer picture of where my money is coming from and where I want to invest my time."
As a result, Kerr has streamlined her business model, focusing more on structured workshops, which now generate more income. "We’ve set a goal for two workshops a month, and I feel more confident in managing my income and business growth," she says.
Kerr also recognised that marketing was a key area for improvement. “I was spending more time on Facebook than doing what I love,” she says. Her mentor suggested hiring help, leading Kerr to bring in a to work on her website and SEO. “Now, when you Google ‘sound healing in Christchurch,’ I’m one of the first results. Those small changes add up.”
With Katherinne’s guidance, Kerr has strengthened her social media presence and built a more consistent brand. “I’m getting great reviews and new clients, thanks to the work we’ve done together.”
Accountability has been key. “As a freelancer, you’re often alone. Having someone to bounce ideas off has been invaluable. Katherinne helps me stay on track, even when I’m feeling uninspired."
Kerr highly recommends mentorship through Business Mentors New Zealand. “It’s a very affordable investment. The right mentor offers invaluable support, and if you outgrow one mentor, you can switch to another.”
With mentorship, Kerr’s path is clearer, and she’s on track to build a sustainable business that aligns with her purpose and positively impacts her community. "Many people are under immense pressure, constantly in go-mode, operating in that fight-or-flight state. Holistic practices, like regular massage or sound healing, offer a way to step back and recharge.”
Visit the Business Mentor New Zealand website for more details on becoming a business mentor or mentee.
