Supporting Small School Leaders

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in leadership development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brooke Carroll, Founder of Acies Strategies, located in Gaithersburg, MD, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I am a consultant to leaders of small independent schools. I work with boards and heads of schools on strategic planning, effective governance, and leadership coaching. Small schools have unique benefits and challenges and have needs that are distinct from larger schools.

Tell us about yourself

I have a doctorate in Educational Psychology and have worked in the education field my whole career. Prior to starting my consulting business, I was the head of a small school for nine years. I have also served on many boards. Educators are such amazing, dedicated, hardworking people, and educators in small schools often have limited support and resources. I love being able to help them feel seen, heard, and supported.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Growing my customer base - slowly and organically - and through the pandemic! I do very little marketing. The majority of folks find me through word of mouth. Six years into this business, I now have a client base that is sustainable.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Balancing the work and finding the work. Also, the anxiety of worrying whether I'll get work in the future.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Make a business plan - think through what you want and need from the business at the beginning.
Think about and be creative about marketing. If you are like me and loathe being on social media, find other ways to connect with potential clients. I've done this through speaking engagements, writing a book, and reaching out to potential clients in more personal ways.
Schedule times to reflect and recharge. When you run your own business, and especially if you work from home, as I do, you can work 24/7. But that doesn't allow you to do your best work. You are more focused, creative, and effective if you are rested. (I'm working on taking my own advice!!)

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.aciesstrategies.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AciesStrategies
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-carroll-acies/

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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