Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business solutions but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Samantha Cordero, CEO of Auxo Business Services, located in Denver, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a virtual administrative and operations support agency. We work with CEOs and managers of small and mid-sized teams to increase productivity, organization, and efficiency. By improving and documenting processes, automating CRMs and task management boards, and providing remote office management, we protect our clients' time so they can push their goals forward with fewer distractions.
Tell us about yourself
I started my business in July 2020. I was underwhelmed with the opportunity I found to make an impactful change when I worked as an Executive Assistant and Office Manager. My perspective on improving processes and getting things done was always valued, though the real change didn't always follow.
When I learned about Lean Six Sigma, I sought a way to bring the technical expertise behind process management and the personal side of HR together to create ways to really harness team collaboration inefficient, solutions-minded ways. I love that our clients experience a little magical relief when our virtual assistants handle their stressful to-do lists. I love when teams discover an easier way to get from A to Z without sacrificing quality or creativity. I am motivated to inspire company cultures to hold on to what makes their teams great while still running lean, successful businesses.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Seeing my team grow and learn is a major accomplishment. I knew when I started the business that I wanted to be different than the management I experienced in corporate - and sometimes small business - settings. I wanted to be supportive, humble, and knowledgeable. Being a reliable resource for my team while seeing them learn to navigate difficult situations on their own is something I am very proud of.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Understanding that work-life balance is a bit of a fallacy and that you have to lean into a blend of values and goal-driven actions is a major challenge. At least, it is for me as a business owner and a mother of 2. I honestly had to learn how time spent with my children helps me show up better for my clients and my team. It is sometimes very difficult to focus on tea parties and bath time silliness when my CEO's gears are turning. Though, I have found that when I let go of those thoughts and return to them after I have focused on my family, I often have more innovative ideas.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Seek clarity. Embrace discomfort. Go for it. When things feel foggy and unclear, that is a moment to pause and ask yourself if what you are doing is headed in the right direction.
- Is it aligned with your values and your goals? When you feel embarrassed, uncomfortable, or inferior, those are moments to step into that feeling and assess why you feel that way and what you need to do to not feel that way. Is it a moment to overcome insecurity? Is it a moment to invest in deeper learning? What do you need to do to feel comfortable and show up stronger?
- And when you are nervous, just go for it. Honestly, the worst that will happen is that opportunity closes. It would be closed if you didn't go for it anyway.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.auxosvs.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/auxobusiness/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthacordero-axuosvs/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.