Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Shandrilya Lewis, Founder of The Brand Exec, located in Washington, D.C., USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I have a personal branding company. I focus on growth expansion and executive leadership coaching for sole proprietors and start-ups.
Tell us about yourself
I have a passion for helping people succeed. When I was younger, I realized that many people around me had dreams but lacked the resources and tools to properly execute their business goals. It was important for me to become a resource that equips and empowers leaders to build their brands and navigate complex organizational changes.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment was establishing branding workshops for teenagers in underrepresented communities during my first two years as an entrepreneur. Years later, I saw those students, and they were leveraging the personal branding tools that I had provided to them for their own new business ventures.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Time management is one of the harder things to master as a small business owner. Like many other people, I also work in Corporate America, leading business strategy, so making space for my business’s growth and clients’ growth helps me to prioritize each day. The work never stops, but it is rewarding.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Take the leap. Block out the noise and fear and do it. Do your research and ask questions. With the rise of social media, there are many communication forums for people looking to grow in the same industry and share best practices.
- Try to understand business finances or work with someone who does. Know what you need to sustain your business and understand that new businesses will come with challenges in the beginning, but that is okay. Companies that are incumbents go through similar challenges, so don’t be afraid to go back to the drawing board and navigate what works and what doesn’t.
- Every interaction is an opportunity for business development. If you’re an introvert, try to step outside of your comfort zone once a week and meet someone new. You never know when you may run into your next investor or potential business partner. Be comfortable in being uncomfortable. Remember, “your best brand is you.”
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.thebrandexec.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebrandexec/
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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