Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Gail Liebhaber, Founder of Career Directions, located in the United States.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I launched Career Directions in the 1990's while working as the Director of Career Services at 2 Harvard University grad schools. My clients are young entry-level workers, mid-career professionals looking to make a pivot, women, and men re-entering the workforce, managers needing to manage up, and retirees ready for their encore challenge. I offer vocational assessment tools, worksheets, job search resources, and reflection exercises to help them explore, uncover and clarify their options. It has been my joy and honor to work one-one with clients, empowering them to find fulfillment and balance in their life. I bring humor and gentleness to the process as I know this can be a time of frustration, despondency, and loneliness. When my clients say, "No one has asked me that insightful question before," I know that I have provided tools that will last a lifetime. I bring humor, intuition, and wisdom to every session. Since clients average 4-8 sessions, I ensure that they attain value from every meeting- I believe in true customer satisfaction. I have the best job in the world!
Tell us about yourself
When I was in college, a dean asked me to accompany her as she talked to middle school girls about careers. This began my journey of guiding folks for over 40 years in the art of career- decision-making, job search techniques, and creating a satisfying work life. I began my business slowly and gently in the beginning as I had two young children and a job (which provided benefits). Thanks to referrals from therapists, happy customers, and the algorithms of Google, it gained traction, and after 20 years, I quit my job to have more time for my business, wellness, family, and watercolor painting (https://artbygail.wordpress.com/)
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
It can be hard to start a business! I questioned whether the Boston area needed another coach, so I did my market research and realized that I had a particular program and perspective that was needed by folks. I developed my website in 1999 ( http://www.yourcareerdirection.com/) and have had a steady stream of clients ever since.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I am a tough boss! I demand excellent services from myself. Having a client-oriented business means making certain I am up to date with all the trends in the job search, including Linked In, resume writing, and career resources. I have to remember to stop and say tomorrow is another day. When I first started, I offered early morning and evening sessions. I am much more circumspect with my time now. It was very important to me to build a professional network. We have been together for almost 25 years, meeting to discuss cases and provide continuous learning. I have recently developed a referral program for other colleagues as well as offering mentoring services to new career coaches.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do your homework! Assess the market- is there a need? Who are your competitors? What do they charge? What do you offer that is unique?
- Work for someone else first. Gain first-hand knowledge about what it takes to run a business in your aspired field. Make your mistakes, learn everything you can and then decide.
- Be financially sound. It can take 5-10 years for a business to be successful. Have your finances in order to support yourself.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I have written a book called - Purposeful Listening: Spiritual Coaching Techniques for Career Development Practitioners.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.yourcareerdirection.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yourcareerdirection/
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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