Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in leadership development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Shenaille Beckley, Founder of SBD Coaching & Consulting LLC., located in New York, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
SBD Coaching & Consulting LLC is a consulting firm that specializes in developing the skills of K-5 school leaders to help them create equity-oriented, balanced, and effective leadership practices. SBD C&C serves principals, school directors, assistant principals, academic deans, and other school-based instructional leaders who need a strategic plan that increases student and teacher success while ensuring they do NOT burn out.
Tell us about yourself
As a teacher, my success, and the success of many teachers in my school was propelled forward by effective school leaders who helped us get better at our craft every day. When I transitioned into leadership, I saw that while I had the tools to help teachers get better at their practice, what I was expected to do was very unsustainable. My workload tripled, and I was on a fast track to burning out. This inspired me to find solutions. I wanted to learn how a school leader could be effective and make transformative change while NOT burning out. This, coupled with the global pandemic, inspired my formation of SBD C&C and the work I do every day with school leaders just like me who want to serve for the long haul.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
As a new business owner, I have finally found my passion. I have principals who see a 10% year-over-year teacher retention rate, teachers who see a 30% increase in their student achievement results, and a new business that is on its way to its first full year of operation.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Staying encouraged. There are financial, emotional, and, depending on your business, sometimes physical challenges that come with being a business owner. One of the hardest yet extremely necessary things that come along with this path is to stay encouraged by celebrating short-term wins and focusing on your long-term goals despite the challenges - and there will be many.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Get a business coach who is in alignment with your values.
- Ensure your strategy matches your funding.
- Get help/support as soon as you possibly can!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://courses.shenaillebeckley.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sbdcoach
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadershipcoachmsb/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sbd-leadership-coaching/
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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