Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tracy Shroyer, Ph.D., located in Marysville, OH, USA.

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

My business falls under the umbrella of Tracy Shroyer, Ph.D. LLC is made up of a free community called Upskill University, as well as paid products and services. The primarily paid service launching in 2023 is called RISE Professionally and is a learning community subscription. RISE Professionally is geared toward organizations and mid-level professionals interested in upskilling, specifically in soft skills areas like time management, communication, problem-solving, leadership, and more. The subscription includes courses, coaching, and community, making it an opportunity like no other currently available.

Tell us about yourself

I dabbled with entrepreneurship in the past but realized the need to get focused on what I wanted to do and who I could help when I was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2020. In March of 2021, I launched my business and began providing a variety of upskilling opportunities to my clients through on-demand courses, challenges, and 1-on-1 coaching. I am motivated each day by a group of fellow female entrepreneurs, realizing the need for what they offer and working to stay focused and become even more strategic in ensuring that their products and/or services reach their target audience.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Realizing that there is a continual evolution in me and in my business is a huge accomplishment for me. Having this mindset makes me realize I'm not stuck; rather, I'm on a learning journey. If we, as entrepreneurs, are not willing to adapt and pivot, our businesses are at risk.

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

While continual evolution is my biggest accomplishment in my business, it can also be one of the hardest things to do. It means always being open to growth and change, which can be exhausting at times.

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

  1. Find a coach and inner circle (or more than one) that is the right fit for you and your business at this moment (that may change over time, and you go find a coach after that supports you in the next level if needed).
  2. Evaluate the tools and systems you are using on a quarterly basis, if not more often. Based on where your business goes, you'll likely need to shift and change these or find new or different tools or systems that will help save you time and/or money!
  3. Really think through and map out your ideal client, their challenges, and how your products/services help minimize those challenges before you dive in.
  4. Get visible - get on video, get brand photos, and/or get posting on social media platforms where your ideal clients are. (Hint: leverage social media content tools to schedule posts for greater efficiency.)

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.tracyshroyerphd.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tracyshroyerphd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tracyshroyerphd/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracyshroyerphd/

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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