Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jennifer Barton-Helin, Owner of Seniors Helping Seniors, located in Melbourne, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are Seniors Helping Seniors, and we really do hire seniors to go out and help other seniors. Our customers are seniors and the families that care for them. Our goal is to build peer-to-peer relationships, thereby improving the quality of life for all our seniors and providing peace of mind for their families.
Tell us about yourself
I helped care for family members with dementia. Watching their journey, I realized how much a "village" was needed during this time, but how many seniors and their families faced it alone. When I saw the concept of seniors helping other seniors, I knew that it would be a game-changer for both sides, the seniors being helped and the seniors helping. After falling in love with the idea, I had my mother look into the franchise as well. After finishing her research, she asked, "So when are we going to do this?" I loved the idea of having my mom as my "senior partner," and we jumped in with both feet. After ten years, I still love the fact that we help both sides. I know that the seniors we have helping go above and beyond to improve their clients' lives. Hearing from a daughter that our services were "life-changing" makes it all worthwhile!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Knowing that most new businesses fail within the first few years, I am proud to have recently celebrated our tenth anniversary. Successfully navigating the pandemic has also been a big accomplishment.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Finding a work-life balance. I also believe in a servant leadership style of management and endeavor to take care of my employees just as much as my clients. Trying to care for everyone and knowing that ultimately the decisions are mine, especially during the pandemic, can be overwhelming at moments.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Be prepared to work hard; most businesses are not overnight successes. Listen and learn from others, use your resources, and don't be afraid to ask for help.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://seniorcarebrevard.com/
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3bT6Iqd
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3RiZFaB
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferhelin/
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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