Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Angela Johnson, Founder of Collaborative Leadership Team, located in Minneapolis, MN, USA.

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

Collaborative Leadership Team believes in a different approach to doing work. We guide individuals, teams, and organizations in making - and sustaining - new ways to achieve their goals and objectives.

Tell us about yourself

What gets me out of bed every day is helping people improve their approach to work. I'm a "people geek," so my focus is on adapting interpersonal behaviors for better outcomes.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner was vertically integrating our need for training and business event space in 2019. West End Conference Center not only accommodates CoLeadTeam's needs but is available to others looking for a professional environment to host business and training events.

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

One thing I don't think people realize about business owners is that sometimes you just have to be in "the grind." Even if you don't want to. Business ownership can be glamorized, but it does take work. That work isn't always recognized, but I do think it's necessary.

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

  1. Read. I mean, read to comprehend - do not skim! Reading the fine print may be a drag, but better safe than sorry.
  2. Find an accountant that is well versed in small business. Not all accountants are created equal - it's vital to have one that understands the pros and cons of various business structures.
  3. Do your research. Do you know what type of corporate entity you want to start? An S-corp may offer advantages that an LLC or a C-corp can't.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

One of the most rewarding things about starting my own firm is what I can offer employees. Giving them a structure that supports their needs while empowering them to be autonomous has always led to the right thing being done for our customers in any situation.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://collaborativeleadershipteam.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angela.johnson.526438
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agileangela/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AgileAngela
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelajohnsonscrumtrainer/


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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