Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lara Schroeder, Founder of Spark Solutions, located in Spiritwood, SK, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Spark Solutions helps sports organizers to deliver better sports so that everyone who participates in sports has a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and positive experience. We work with sport and recreation organizations, predominantly non-profits, from the local to the national level. We develop strategies, engage stakeholders, and share knowledge through workshops, resources, and templates. We're collaborative, engaging, passionate, and enthusiastic, and we provide tailored support services and guide people through processes to achieve their goals.
Tell us about yourself
I participated in many sports when I was growing up in my small town. I saw that sports could bring people together and could focus people toward a common goal. I decided to pursue sports management at university so that I could give back to something that has brought so much to my life. Once I started working in sports, I came to understand that participating in sports isn't positive for everyone. Many people experience negative things that drive them to quit and never return. Many sports organizers are volunteers and know where they want to go but not how to get there. I knew I could bring my expertise to more sports organizations by starting my own business.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
There are several things that I could cite as my biggest accomplishments, but it's all of the small accomplishments that add up to the big ones. In the beginning, my goal was simply to make enough to pay my bills, and I've celebrated every month that I've done that since. I celebrate every new client I work with, especially if they represent new sports or new provinces and territories. I celebrate if they return! It's all exciting to me.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The balance between working IN and ON my business. It's tempting to focus on working in my business, like client work. That's fun - that's why I got into this! But I also work hard to ensure I'm spending the right amount of time on my business. Developing systems, strengthening programs and services, marketing, checking in on cash flow, etc. If I want to grow this business, I need to spend the right amount of time on that as well.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Establish your 'why,' put it on your wall, and measure everything against it. It's tempting to say yes to every opportunity because it might bring in money, but it will distract you from the things that speak directly to your why.
- Develop strong relationships, even with your 'worthy rivals.' Look for ways to serve those relationships and be willing to lean on them in times of need.
- Maintain meaningful hobbies. Invest in your business, but don't let it be your only thing. In the beginning, I worked on my business morning, day, and night. I was making progress, but I was also exhausting myself. Then I found a hobby that I really enjoy. When I take a break to work on my hobby, it rejuvenates me, and I come back to my business refreshed and ready to take on more.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.sparkplay.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparkplay306/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sparkplay306
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sparkplay306/
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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