Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in career development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Clifton Carmody, founder of HospitalityLeadership.coach, located in Pagosa Springs, CO, USA.

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

My business is "HospitalityLeadership.coach," a specialized leadership coaching program that caters to professionals in the hospitality industries, including hotels, restaurants, assisted care facilities, and others. Our customers are individuals in leadership positions within the hospitality industry who are seeking to enhance their skills, improve their performance, and achieve their career goals. Our program is designed to help these individuals develop the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed as leaders and drive success for their organizations.

Tell us about yourself

I am a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the hospitality industry, where I held various executive positions. During my time in the industry, I recognized the importance of strong leadership in driving success and was inspired to find ways to support and empower those in leadership roles. This led me to pursue a career in coaching, where I could help others achieve their full potential and make a positive impact in the world through their work.

My passion for coaching is driven by the knowledge that it is a powerful tool for helping individuals and organizations succeed. I am motivated each day by my clients, who inspire me with their dedication and drive to be the best leaders they can be. Working with them to help them achieve their goals and make a difference in their industry is truly an honor, and I am dedicated to providing the support and guidance they need to succeed.

Being a coach is more than just a job for me – it is a calling. I am driven by the opportunity to change the world, one leader at a time, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference through my work.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

As a business owner and coach, my greatest accomplishment is the difference I make in the lives of my clients. I am humbled and honored to be a part of their journey toward success, and it is incredibly rewarding to see the impact my coaching has on their professional and personal lives. For example, while doing this interview, I got a text from a client who had just been promoted to a position we had been working on. She is so happy! When my clients accomplish a goal that we worked on together is truly one of the most rewarding experiences. It is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and commitment of my clients, and it is a source of immense pride and inspiration for me.

While starting and growing a business is no small feat, it is the difference I make in the lives of my clients that is my greatest accomplishment. I am motivated each day by the knowledge that my work is making a positive impact, and I am dedicated to continuing to help my clients achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

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

Being an entrepreneur can be a thrilling but also challenging journey. One of the hardest aspects of being a business owner is the uncertainty and unpredictability of where the next contract or client will come from. It can be easy to question yourself and doubt the decisions you have made, leading to moments of self-doubt and stress. However, despite these challenges, being an entrepreneur can be one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. The feeling of building something from scratch, overcoming obstacles, and seeing your vision come to life is truly fulfilling. The satisfaction that comes with being your own boss, making your own decisions, and seeing the positive impact you are making in your clients' lives, is unmatched.

So, while the road may not always be easy, the rewards of entrepreneurship make it all worth it. If you have a passion for your work and a drive to succeed, the challenges of entrepreneurship can be overcome, and the rewards can be truly life-changing.

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

Starting and growing a successful business is no easy feat, but with the right approach, anyone can turn their dream into a reality. Here are the top 3 tips I would give to anyone looking to start, run, and grow a business today:

  1. Treat it like a marathon, not a sprint. Building a successful business takes time and effort, so it's important to have a long-term perspective. Avoid making impulsive decisions and focus on sustainable growth and development.
  2. Have enough start-up money. It's essential to have enough financial resources to get your business off the ground and to cover any unexpected costs that may arise. Before quitting your day job, make sure you have a solid financial plan in place and enough resources to support your business until it starts generating enough revenue to sustain itself.
  3. Get coaching. Whether it's from a mentor, a business coach, or a peer group, getting support and guidance can make all the difference in your business's success. Not only will a coach help you identify areas for improvement and provide practical advice, but they can also help you stay motivated and focused.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.hospitalityleadership.coach/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positiveposition/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cliftoncarmody/

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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