Case studies - Julian Hall

Julian Hall is co-founder of Pure Online Genius, a specialist online marketing consultancy that develops and implements bespoke digital strategies to ensure a website maximises its placement across the web.

Julian is an Ambassador for Make Your Mark, the national campaign to unlock the UK’s enterprise potential, and supporter of Shine.

What was the most valuable lesson you learnt from your school days?
Good English and oral communications skills.

When you were at school did you know what you wanted to do for a career?
Yes – I either wanted to be a scientist or an entrepreneur. I chose the latter in the end.

What were you doing before your talent became your job?
Working in investment banking.

How did you get your break?
When I secured funding for the business.

Why do you think it’s important to support young people's talents?
So they can have a more hands-on support network to help them achieve.

Who in your life has helped you to Shine? Who inspires you?
Russell Simmons. And successful hip-hop artists.

What other talents do you have?
Martial arts. And I’m very knowledgeable about Black history.

How do you think schools can help young people to develop their ideas and have the confidence to take them forward?
By having them engage with more real life examples of people they can relate to.

What do you think about the Shine festival of talent? Is it something you would have engaged with if it was available while you were at school?
Yes, definitely.

What advice would you give to young people taking part in Shine?
To ask as many questions as possible and use the opportunity to help realise the reality of business and entrepreneurism.