Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jannette Anderson, Founder of Positive Results, located in Calgary, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is called Positive Results because that's what we promise... but my brand is all about Bodacity. Supporting business women in Being the Difference that ONLY They Can Be! Building their bold businesses and bold lives so that they can make not only a meaningful difference but also a magnificent living!
Tell us about yourself
When I was 5, I relentlessly begged my Mom for the book Heidi. Finally, exasperated, she turned around and yelled, "We can't afford it!". I will never forget the look of shame, frustration, sadness, and anger on her face! I decided two things right then. 1. I never wanted to see that look on another woman's face ever again. 2. Problem - no money. Solution - have a "bidness" to make money. :-)
So I had a garage sale, made money to buy the book, and have been an entrepreneur ever since. And have been committed to making sure that every person has the ability to not only meet their needs but also share their gifts and, in so doing, profit both themselves and others. My stand is that I want you to get that you matter... and live like you do! Why - because it's what I always wanted. I believe that for most of us, our "Why" is intimately connected to what we do and the difference we want to make through our business.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I know many people say their clients' successes... but it's true. I get so excited when I get texts or emails from clients saying that they had a breakthrough or got a new client, or have created the courage to sell their house and leap into their mobile lifestyle, or have finally "got" the value they provide. Both the inner and outer wins light me up!
I've had accolades and am even in talks to have a documentary made about me and my work... but the biggest wins are when I make a difference to someone, and it results in tangible progress!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The loneliness at times. I'm always talking to clients, affiliate partners, prospects, etc. - and yes have friends and family who support me - but when you are a leader and business owner, not many people (except others in your circumstance) 'get it.'
And the constant need to attend to sales and marketing. As much as I love some of that - what I, and most service providers love, is doing the work. Being the 'technician,' not the manager. So it's a balancing act to make sure I'm working ON the business and not just IN it. That's why it's important to have support. I have two coaches who help me with that balance.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Get support - but be discerning about who you call in. Make sure you don't buy a bunch of leveraging (1 to many) programs and trainings initially. You need to create a foundation of being able to get one-to-one clients first. Then leverage your time and grow. Much of my work is getting my clients to slow their roll so they can speed up their results.
- It will take longer to get established than you think. Commit to the long haul and make sure you have financial resources or support to carry you for a year or more. You will likely make money before that (If you have the right support), but not likely a replacement income. So just plan for that so that you aren't stressed or forced to go get a job.
- Focus on mastering the inner game as well as your practical externals. If you don't get the value you provide, it will be hard to sell it. If you are reluctant to self-promote - how will anyone find you? Mindset matters. So don't waste time building a beautiful website - build your courage instead and get out there meeting people and sharing what you can do for them!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
It's critical to clarify your 3 why's and a what. Why do you do what you do? Because people buy that more than what you do. Why should they work with you vs. all the other options? Why do they need what you have? And... What the heck do you sell? How do you package, price, and position it? If that is not dialed in, you can't sell or market effectively. I'm called the "Why Whisperer" because this is some of the very important foundation I help my clients lay so that they have a solid platform to grow from!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.bodacity.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BodacitysActionHeroes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jannetteanderson-bodacity-ca/
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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