Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in coaching but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Aaron Bieber, Technologist coach based in Boston, MA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I've been a software developer and leader for over 20 years who works one-on-one with folks in the technology industry to help them tap into their own curiosity and creativity to overcome their biggest challenges and live the life of their dreams.
My clients are all super smart, motivated people who have found success in technology, but they are at a crossroads in their career, or they feel restless and want to change something but aren't sure what change is right for them. You can think of me as your most loyal ally on whatever difficult quest you are setting out on.
Tell us about yourself
I've been coaching software engineers for as long as I can remember. At first, it was as a peer or mentor, then later as a manager, and now it is my full-time job. As I rose in seniority from job to job at software companies, I found that I did less and less hands-on coaching and more organizational and political work, which is what motivated me to start this business. It's a real rush to see someone break through their own barriers and take action toward their most ambitious goals, and I live for that.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I used to think that the biggest thing that I would do in my career would be to contribute to a website or app that could touch millions of people's lives. But I've already done that, and quite frankly, it was fine. As a solopreneur, not only do I have the absolute honor of helping people step out into the transformational journey of their lives, but I also have the flexibility to build the life that I want to live, and there is no greater accomplishment for anyone than that.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
If you have spent over 20 years working for other people, as I have, the hardest change to face when you're working for yourself is becoming your own boss. Sometimes it feels great, and other times it can feel burdensome. Develop a toolkit for navigating that inner conflict because it will never go away.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Number one "begins before you're ready." You derive no value from inaction; you can only learn and achieve by acting, so act now. Take the smallest step at which you cannot fail.
Number two, "always ask for help." Too many entrepreneurs fail because their pride collides with their need for help. Ironically, though, the people you ask for help will think more of you for doing so because human psychology is weird like that, so don't hold back; get help.
Third, and finally, "get a coach." Entrepreneurship is fundamentally lonely. Your coach is your most trusted and loyal ally who is always there, always in your corner, and I honestly wouldn't be where I am right now without my coach.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Ask yourself this question: would you rather risk failure or guarantee regret? The past is over, and the future is uncertain. The only moment that matters is right now. How are you using it?
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://aaronbieber.coach/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/aaronbieber
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronbieber/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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