Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Holly-Marie Conway, founder of Strength Through Speaking, located in North Bay, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Strength Through Speaking came into existence to fill the gap of speaking training in Canada. People don't want speakers - they want experts who speak, and that's where I come in. I use my years of competition experience and teaching communication workshops to coach entrepreneurs and experts before they grace the BIG stage (in-person or online).
I work with E&E (Entrepreneurs and Experts) who are ready to speak. They come from all industries and walks of life. The common thread is their expertise and reputation in their fields. I close the gap in speaking skills to raise the voices in a crowded world.
Tell us about yourself
I started speaking in front of my first audience at the age of 9 and haven't stopped speaking since that day. Over three decades, I grew into a fearless speaker through competitions and presentations in multiple organizations. My "gift of gab" wasn't innate talent but years of learning, practicing and competing. I love to share my experiences and passion for speaking with others; we need to hear more.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Clients who reach out to me and say, "I used the skills you taught me" in a new setting or presentation. Hearing that I have continued positive impact on the people in my life is the greatest accolade I can receive as a speaking coach.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
You lose the comfort and safety net of a regular paycheque. Being the boss means you deal with everything - the good, the bad, and the ugly.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Believe in yourself and your idea. If you don't, no one else will.
- Get outside help for weak areas in your business or personal skill set. Entrepreneurship is not for the weak, and asking for help when appropriate is an immense strength.
- Progress is not linear. Take a step back on a regular basis to evaluate yourself and your business.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Everyone has stage fright in some form or another - even the professionals. Get up and speak anyway; the opportunity to do so dissolves with the passage of time. No one likes to hear their voice played back to them. Listen anyway and learn from your presentations.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://linktr.ee/hollymarieconway
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strengththroughspeaking/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strengththroughspeaking/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/strength-through-speaking/
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.
