Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Janelle McLaughlin, Senior Partnership Consultant of Advanced Learning Partnerships, located in North Manchester, IN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am an education consultant and provide professional learning experiences for educators across the country.
Tell us about yourself
I was a teacher for fourteen years and a curriculum director for three years after that. I'm passionate about students receiving the best authentic teaching and learning possible. In order for that to happen, teachers, principals, instructional coaches, and district administrators need opportunities for growth, as well. I had a terrible boss when I was still a curriculum director, and needing to leave a toxic environment led to some deep reflection on what drove me professionally. I realized it all came back to supporting educators, and that led to me starting a consulting business. I was self-employed for the first five years of my consulting career, and in May 2020 was blessed to join the leadership team of Advanced Learning Partnerships.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I published my first two books in 2022. This was something I had aspired to for years, but I was somewhat intimidated by the process. Some external motivation and encouragement led me to write the first one called, Leadership at Every Level. In the middle of that process, I connected with two other educators to write the second book, Instruction Without Boundaries. I love being able to share experiences and research to reach more people through these resources.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
You have to be driven every day. Self-disciple, internal motivation, and a passion for what you do are essential to run a successful business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have a plan that starts with a goal and includes actionable steps with timelines.
- Include time for intentional reflection on a regular basis to continually grow and change, if needed, in order to achieve that goal.
- Network and connect with others like crazy!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.janelleclevenger.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MsMac4
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janelle_mcl/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ms_Mac4
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janellemclaughlin/
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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