Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in professional development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kristina Cleary, Founder & Chief Leadership Coach of Accelle Inc., located in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business, Accelle, was created to help create a world full of diverse leadership. Our products and services are designed to increase the number of people at the top who identify as women by accelerating their journey to leadership through content, coaching, and community. My curated leadership and development programs help women between the ages of 22 and 62, regardless of industry or job function, grow their skills and expand their toolkits to accelerate the achievement of their personal and professional goals.
Tell us about yourself
After 25+ years in the technology industry, including two successful exits, I decided to leave my EVP and CMO position within a global technology HCM organization to help women ACCELLErate their performance through executive coaching and learning and development programs. Throughout my career, there was an obvious gender discrepancy in senior leadership. It was not easy being the only woman in the room – and I really felt throughout my journey that the organizations were missing out on the viewpoints and lens of experience women bring to the decision-making process. I founded ACCELLE to support my growing passion and commitment to helping get more women into senior leadership positions. I am motivated every day by this passion and committed to developing content and solutions that empower women to develop confidence and leadership presence and belong to a community where they can thrive.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Without a doubt, it is the impact I am able to drive with women. I am so honored to be a small piece of the transformations, and successes my clients and members share with me on a daily basis. When I receive emails citing promotions, raises, lifestyle changes, and incredible accomplishments my clients share as a result of being empowered, increased confidence, improved negotiation skills, or a connection they made as a result of my community - I couldn't be more proud.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I would say it is definitely scaling successfully. And what I mean by that is ensuring I hire world-class people, invest in the best technology, continuing to deliver best-in-class programs as we grow. These are all high priorities, and it can be stressful to manage this concurrently as a business owner.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Go for it! I know starting a business can be intimidating and scary. But I encourage you to give it a shot. You will be surprised by the many wonderful people and doors waiting to open for you once you try. There is no time better than today to go for it.
- Windows of opportunity are everywhere. Keep your eyes and ears open. Some will be created by you, and some will be presented to you. It is your choice which windows you choose to open. This has been one of the most incredible lessons I have learned through my journey.
- Learn, learn, learn. Continuously grow your entrepreneurial toolkit. Whether it be from business owners who are steps ahead of you, through subject matter experts, or clients - the journey of a business owner is one of continuous learning and growth. Never stop learning!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.accelle.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KristinaCleary.KC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristina_cleary/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KristinaCleary
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinacleary/
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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