Your Communications & Presentation Specialist - Faith Wood
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Faith Wood, founder of Inspiring Minds Consulting Ltd., located in Coldstream, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I do specialize in conflict. I am a former Peace Officer and certified mediator who refined my craft on those turbulent front lines. As an award-winning novelist, my talent contributes to audiences raving over my ability to hold attention (virtual or live) while sharing relevant and practical advice designed to build community and foster team cohesion. I offer hypnotherapy, consulting, and support for my one-to-one clients to help them build resilient mindsets and foster influential communication styles.
In groups, my primary clients are in the business of service. And I help teams find more enjoyment in their work together with leaders in refining their communication style and promoting service excellence.
As an Author, I entertain with my lively suspense mystery series' and provide tangible strategies for navigating tricky behaviours in my non-fiction books and articles.
Tell us about yourself
Having worked as a Peace Officer for the better part of 15 years and provided mediation to court-mandated conflicts, I participated in a lot of avoidable conflict and stress. Mostly for myself! I wanted to find an easier way to navigate challenging situations, so I started learning, reading, and studying. Then I started teaching what I was learning. It was a relief to so many that, one day, I had to decide if I would leave my safe government job and pursue a career where I could really make a positive difference. The moments of relief from my clients' laughter as groups realize a new perspective on things - all these conspire to keep me showing up and supporting where I can. I am truly a girl who values service above self, but this work rewards my efforts every single day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
When someone comes to me ten years after they heard me speak, I tell them that my suggestions have transformed their relationships. And that they are finally in a corporate position to hire me, and so they do. (Really, the fact that they still remember me and keep my contact information that long is rewarding).
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Isolation and maintaining consistent boundaries between work and personal schedules.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Treat it like a business. Right from the start. Not a hobby. Own the hours and protect your off-hours ruthlessly.
- Get a good bookkeeper and an amazing accountant.
- Hire a housekeeper. (those conflicts over household chores do not go away, and this will make a big difference in how you survive those situations)
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Never stop learning, growing, and adapting. I started as a trainer and keynote speaker. Developed a facilitator's skills and moved into consulting with service-oriented businesses to improve staffing challenges. I love that work. Then I wrote novels, which made me a better presenter through refined storytelling. Network wherever you can. Give back generously, and the universe will reward you for your efforts with the success you can only imagine.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.imind.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/faith.wood1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Inspiring_Minds
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faithwood/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.