Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dr. Deborah Hardy, Founder of GuidED Consulting, located in Mahopac, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
GuidED’s personalized approach combines the student’s interests into a thoughtful exploration of the academic, career, and college planning process. Our clients are 8th-12th grade, undergraduate, transfer, and graduate students. We service clients from Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess in person in our Mahopac office and through online conferencing throughout the country. Our team provides every high school student with the information, resources, and appropriate support to achieve academic, career and college success.
Tell us about yourself
I began my career as an admissions counselor and transitioned to the school counseling profession. For over 25 years, I have been supporting high school students in finding their purpose and pathway. Once I left the school system, families asked me to continue helping their high school students, and I opened GuidED Consulting. What keeps me going is the excitement students have in the college process, where they discover their talents and abilities. To experience their sense of achievement and confidence is amazing. Having someone believe in their capacity and guide them through avenues and resources as they find their pathway is my purpose!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The biggest accomplishment is the validation that students have discovered who they are and know their strengths. This has allowed me to carry further our slogan, Counseling with a Heart.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Managing all facets of the business and doing it appropriately. Maintaining transparent communication is also essential.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Ask yourself why and how the business connects with your purpose.
- Speak with others who have started a similar business to understand challenges.
- Face the obstacles with an open mind and adapt as needed.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Be patient. Building a business takes time, but if you are passionate about achieving the goal, then it will come.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.guidedconsult.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GuidedCollegeCounseling
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guidedconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-hardy/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.
