Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Doug Lawrence, Founder and President of TalentC, located in Regina, SK, Canada.

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

I provide mentoring services to all industries and all levels within an organization. My customers are leaders within an organization, employees, and people by referral with the plan to help them grow on a personal and professional basis. I also work with people who are struggling with mental health issues/challenges.

Tell us about yourself

I am a retired Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer with 25 years of service. I retired from the police force in 1998/1999 and went into management consulting and leadership roles. I started my own company in the fall of 2009, focused on all things mentoring and mentor certification. I was job coaching university/college students, and the relationship grew into one that was mentoring. After numerous referrals, I embarked on starting my own business. What gets me out of bed every morning is that I get to do what I am passionate about - helping people and organizations grow on a personal and professional basis. My vision has grown with now working with people who are struggling with mental health.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Working with young entrepreneurs and seeing the success that they are having. I work with the Sir Richard Branson Entrepreneur program in the Caribbean, and I am truly blessed to be working with some very focused and brilliant young business owners.

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

Staying focused on moving forward and being flexible when there are curves in the road.

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

  1. Do your market research - make sure there is a need for what you offer.
  2. Whatever you do - stay passionate about what you do - it is so much easier.
  3. Talk your way through things - have a mentor to bounce ideas off of.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I have modified the course that I was taking and know that there are times ahead that will require that I modify the course again. Through all of this, I stay focused on my vision and my passion; without that, it would be a very rocky journey.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://talentc.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/doug.lawrence.1610/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DougLawrenceJM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglawrence-mentor/

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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