Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Paula White, a leadership coach based in New Albany, OH, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I help individual leaders become successful in business by coaching them on how to be both business savvy and intentionally connected with the individuals they work with. I work with corporate clients to help them build the skills of their high-potential leaders using programs or sets of Lunch and Learns.
Tell us about yourself
I wrote Side B: Remix Your Leadership Style to help all levels of leaders understand the importance of people skills, which are often neglected in favor of resume skills. After 30 years of working my way up the corporate ladder, I realized that something was missing from leadership development programs. They focus too heavily on developing technical skills (Side A) at the expense of relational ones (Side B). As a result, we spend more time honing our resumes than learning how to interact with others and build relationships. After I learned that my music had been turned off while climbing the ladder, I decided to help make a change to bring back the importance of people skills. Music is the universal language, so I bring that into my sessions!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Celebrating your small victories is great, and I felt elated when I completed writing my book. But what mattered more to me was helping others discover their hidden talents, so they could use them to build strong relationships and be productive employees that contribute to a company's bottom line. In an effort to do this, I hosted a program for nine up-and-coming leaders, and within six months, 6 of them had been promoted to management positions.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
A friend of mine said it best--being a business owner is like taking a crash course to receive your Master's in Business. Sure, making mistakes and learning from them can be enjoyable and easy, but when it's your personal money at risk, things get real quick. It's a learning process that never ends; there will always be something new to learn or ways you can improve. This is why it's important to have laser focus and know exactly WHY you're doing this, so you don't lose motivation along the way.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Get crystal clear on your purpose and why you are in business.
- Learn the basics of finance and legal structures to protect your business, even if you outsource these services.
- Cultivate relationships with people that can help you grow and succeed - they will be your biggest asset! Lastly, make sure you take time for yourself to recharge, find balance and stay inspired. Music helps with that!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://paulaswhite.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sidebconsulting/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pswhite00
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-s-white/
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.
