Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in leadership development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Carol Schultz, Founder & CEO of Vertical Elevation, located in Parker, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Vertical Elevation is a talent equity and leadership coaching and advisory firm. We begin with discovery at the leadership level and get them aligned. Once that's done, we work to move this alignment down the ranks, train and coach other leaders, teach them how to communicate effectively, and then build a talent strategy that supports the vision and business strategy of the company. Our focus is on founders, CEOs, and board members of organizations in the SMB space.
Tell us about yourself
I started in Exec Search in 1992 and began my coaching training in 1998. In 2008 I literally got out of bed one morning and realized the entire search system was broken with no real fixes available and built the process of what is not known as a talent-centric organization (TCO).
The reason I built this is that I've always been motivated by the opportunity to make a difference, and this process, along with coaching, makes massive shifts within an organization.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Finally committing to writing my book, Powered By People: How Talent Centric Organizations master Recruitment, Retention, & Revenue (and How To Build One). It was long overdue, and now leaders can read it and utilize it in their organizations.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Realize that you should spend money in areas that are NOT in your genius. Too many business owners, especially small business owners, try to do so much themselves and never see the results they would if they hired a pro. I fell victim to this years ago.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Spend money in areas that are NOT in your genius. Too many business owners, especially small business owners, try to do so much themselves and never see the results they would if they hired a pro. I fell victim to this years ago.
- You need to be willing to "starve" for at least two years. If you either don't have the money to go without or aren't willing to go without, starting a business is not for you.
- Be open to the possibility that there are things living in blind spots (you don't know what you don't know) and find a qualified coach to help you get past these things.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://verticalelevation.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CarolBSchultz
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertical-elevation/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.