Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in coaching but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with David Fisher, Award-winning speaker and communications coach, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The world needs fast change! I teach how people can increase their focus, connection, and influence through mastering communication skills. Whether that's public speaking (rated a top 10 public speaker with Yahoo Finance), interpersonal communication (conversations and networking), or communicating with yourself, I can help with personal coaching, small groups, or live events!
Tell us about yourself
If you are the type of person who sees the world around you and yearns to make it better, you know how I feel. I know we can create a better future. I grew up acting, have experience in sales and leadership, and have extensive education in communication. I woke up one day about seven years ago and asked myself - after going through an immensely difficult time, "What can I do that makes my community and my world better while also fulfilling my own passions?" I knew there were a lot of things I couldn't do, but the one thing I was good at was communication. Thus my business was born! It's gone through several iterations over time and through COVID, but the core principles are the same: Helping others communicate and connect to make a difference!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Right before COVID, I was asked to do some international speaking engagements in Thailand and Indonesia. This birthed my international speaking career. COVID halted travel, but I now have online clients all over the world. I'm looking forward to traveling again, too!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For me, it's the details of the day-to-day. I love working with people, coaching, going to events, and speaking. However, the in-between, the marketing, the social media content, and the actual building can be tedious for me. I know others who love that side of the business, but I usually outsource it. What drives me, however, is that I have a vision of a future that's brighter than the one we are in now. I can help create that future. We all can.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First of all, don't do it! Then if you can't say no to what's inside of you, you have the vision to see through the hard times. Yes, your own business can help you make more, give you more flexibility, and fulfill a dream, but if that dream is not embedded in your soul, it won't last. Ask yourself, "Can I live without this?" If you can't, you're on the right track. I was willing to coach and speak for free at first to build a referral and testimonial base. That was a lot of investment before I started seeing a return. I loved it enough to do it for free. In some circumstances, I still do. Now I can help with non-profits and individuals because I'm passionate about helping tell their stories.
Secondly, focus on the tasks. If a day is too overwhelming, or the vision is too terrifying at times, ask yourself, "What is the next task I have to do?" It might just be getting out of bed, but that's a start. Do one task at a time without worrying about the big picture. That works - even for a big picture dreamer like me.
The third is to find your people. Find your fanbase, your mentors, and your group who will support you, guide you, celebrate with you, and cry with you. My videographer is my best friend. I know when I have an event, there are people who will show up no matter what. You are not an island. Help others, create connections, collaborate, and work together. There is plenty of room at the top.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Enjoy the process. Building a business, it's not a destination; it's a journey. You have big goals but don't wait to celebrate the process along the way. Remember each step, breathe in, and be present.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://davidfish.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heroicleadership
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidfish.ca/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidfishca
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidfishca/
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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