Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in human resources but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amber Trail, Founder and CEO of The HR Trail, LLC., located in Warfordsburg, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The HR Trail, LLC is a human resources consulting and coaching company. Our clients are small business owners throughout the U.S. and Human Resource Professionals around the world. Our innovative approach is called HR Without Borders™. Our mission is to support the needs of both the organization and the employees as they build a stronger and more united workforce together, sharing a common vision and goals.
Tell us about yourself
My journey started in Human Resources in a nonconventional way. I started out with a company helping them write a company handbook in which I had no experience, but they liked my passion and determination. A month into my new position, the owner asked me to help out in HR. I immediately said no. Why? Because I had two very disturbing experiences with HR professionals. In my very first position outside of college, I was sexually harassed by a co-worker. I went to HR, and the gentleman who was the HR Director looked at me and said, "what do you want me to do about it?" As a 20-something newbie, I felt sick to my stomach, thinking I couldn't go back to that environment. The next day I quit.
My next position was not any better. A very similar situation happened. Hence, why when I was asked by the owner of the new company to step in and help in HR, I was apprehensive. Reluctantly I stepped up. This moment changed my life forever. My co-worker gave me the tools, tips, advice, and experience I needed to see how HR should really function. HR was not just there for the employer but also to help guide the success of each employee.
I have a passion for helping others and making a difference in organizations that currently do not have an in-house HR team or need team-building support. I also support HR Executives who want to increase their confidence, create more success and expand opportunities within the industry.
I'm not afraid of failure. In fact, failure is what drives me into accelerated growth and success in what I do. I am not your normal HR professional. I'm unapologetically unique. I take standardized learned HR behaviors, break them apart, analyze them, and determine why our HR system is so broken.
With over 15 years of HR experience, credentials, and education, I designed a cutting-edge approach and success-driven strategies for HR professionals who want to establish themselves within this industry.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Becoming recognized as the go-to HR Strategist for HR professionals worldwide.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Finding the right people to help you grow your business. In the current hiring market, it's difficult to find someone who is willing to come along this journey with you. There are many risks in working for a small business owner, but the outcome of success is a huge reward.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Research, network, and always develop your skills.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.thehrtrail.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehrtrail
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ambertrail/
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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