Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mary Erlain, founder of Peak Development Strategies, located in Naperville, IL, USA.

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

The business of running your own business is daunting but doable. We make it easier on you. Even with savvy business partners, excellent managers, and top-notch employees, the struggle is real to run a small business. Ongoing issues with retention, problem-solving, and other critical business development areas can drag you and your bottom line. Independent business owners all share common struggles.

We offer solid expertise and a strong track record of helping entrepreneurs create effective forward-thinking strategies. Helping you create and nurture a goals-focused culture, our advisors and strategic partners provide critical support. Here are a few ways we help you turn the keys to peak development.

Tell us about yourself

My mission is three-fold:

  1. Strengthening an organization’s core foundation to compete in the marketplace.
  2. To offer a superior support system of resources and knowledge of marketplace trends within various industries.
  3. To apply my expertise by incorporating the needs of businesses into leadership planning and growth strategies.

I have a healthcare background. I have always cared about people. Leaving healthcare allowed me to focus my time and talents on helping small business owners succeed.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I started Peak Development Strategies during the Great Recession. I am grateful that I helped business owners navigate those difficult times. Moving forward, I can proudly say that all of my clients sustained their businesses through the pandemic.

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

Watching business owners struggle to run their businesses without asking for help. I know I have people in my network that can help them, but they resist the idea of growing their businesses beyond themselves.

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

  1. Start with the end in mind.
  2. Join a peer support group for accountability, problem-solving, and insight.
  3. Create a business idea, business model, and business plan.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

The pandemic created significant changes in our generations in the workplace. We have a generation of workers that have transitioned out and a new generation entering. My books bring necessary attention to generational diversity issues business owners face. In my work, I collaborate with owners, management, and employees to identify and address the root causes of common issues and challenges which can impact growth, productivity, and profitability.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://peak-ds.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PeakDevelopmentStrategies
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marylerlain/

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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