Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Catherine Henderson-Ruff, LSW, Founder of Catherine Ruff Consulting, located in Helmetta, NJ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a grant writer and development consultant who specializes in nonprofits and social enterprises. My customers are nonprofits and social enterprises from all over the world.
Tell us about yourself
I got my start as a direct service social worker and eventually found myself being pulled more and more into the development space. That experience has made me highly effective at what I do in a unique way, as I understand projects from both the social work and business development angles. As a social worker at heart through and through, I love seeing the impact that successful fundraising has on my client's work and their ability to grow as an organization.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I built (and continue to build!) everything from the ground up by myself- from the website to identifying and attaining clients to professional development to stay competitive. I have been able to turn this into my main livelihood in the year since I made the switch to consulting.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
There is ALWAYS something you can be doing, so the hardest thing is definitely to learn how to "turn it off." Remember that sleep is essential!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do a market analysis before you do anything else. Ask yourself- "What are other people doing, and how can I contribute something new?"
- Don't be afraid of "slow" periods- use that time efficiently and work on your administration, self-promotion, advertising, etc.
- Word of mouth is still absolutely key- make sure that you encourage feedback and follow up with clients when they mention they might know others who are interested in your services.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.catherineruffconsulting.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruffconsulting/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ruff_consulting
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/catherine-ruff-consulting/
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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