Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Paul Archer, founder of Paul Archer, Business Coaching, located in Heffley Creek, BC, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

My Business is as a Coach, Instructor, or as a Consultant. I am a Problem Solver, Solution Provider, or just an Extra pair of hands to help. Customers want Transformation, not Information. Perhaps they know exactly what needs to be done but need a little help getting there, or they know what they are trying to achieve but would like to bounce ideas with someone. Other Customers want productivity, not time management, or a skilled set of hands to help get the job done.

While many Coaches prefer to ask questions rather than provide advice, I prefer to think of coaches like Athletic coaches and language coaches. After all, the dictionary definition of Coaching is ​the process of training somebody to play a sport, to do a job better, or improve a skill.

Tell us about yourself

I was laid off from a well-paid position due to COVID. With many years of experience as a Manager and Director in the software industry, as well as being an HR Manager and a College lecturer, I decided it was time to use my skills and experience to help others to grow their businesses. The most motivating element for me is the gratitude from my clients. Knowing that I am helping them get one step closer to their goals gives great satisfaction, as well as us both learning together at times.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Went from being laid off to paying the bills and being self-sufficient in less than a year.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Two main things come to mind. Wearing many hats and the time needed to keep on top of non-income generating tasks such as bookkeeping and marketing, financial planning and forecasting, etc.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Have a One Page Business plan for the year, review it on a regular basis, and know what your quarter and annual goals are.
  2. Be prepared not to get instant gratification. Reputation is key to success and can take a while to build.
  3. There will be a time when you think about quitting. This is a normal part of the process. If your belief is not strong enough in what you do or you do not have the right support network, the journey can be very daunting.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I offer a one-hour free session so we can both understand the issues and possible approaches. This is not a sales call but designed such that we can both check if we think we are a fit for each other.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://archercoaching.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArcherCoaching
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paularcherbusinessconsultant/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-r-archer/

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.