Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Elayna Alexandra, a coach, DEI strategist, writer, facilitator, and speaker, based in Canton, MI, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My customers include individuals, start-ups, non-profits, and small and mid-sized organizations that want to do good in the world, evolve, grow, and meet the challenges of today. I am an expert at navigating uncertainty and gaining your footing in and through transitions.
Tell us about yourself
I first started working for myself in 2011 after a geographical transition of my own. I found my footing by building a company that addressed in a holistic way marketing, communications, and design. I worked with many companies to grow their brand and get their message out into the world. I also designed and delivered large events for communities, special interest groups, and social occasions. After coaching and mentoring many organizations in their marketing, communications, and community engagement, it was natural to take coaching to the next level. In 2020 I became a certified coach and slowly transitioned my work to more coaching and DEI strategy.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have owned my business for more than a decade. I have navigated challenging moments such as Covid and successfully transitioned the focus of my work. Supporting individuals and organizations to thrive is the best thing. And the thank you notes and testimonials years later are a tribute to the success I have in the work I do.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
My work is always a bit uncertain as contracts and clients go up and down. Learning to be a cork in the ocean has taken years, but now I feel I do it pretty successfully. Managing my own medical journey while being a successful business owner has also been a challenge. In 2021 I had my leg amputated after 22 surgeries throughout my life for a rare bone disease. Less than a week later, I was back to work - there aren't a lot of breaks, but I LOVE what I do, so it is ok with me.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know why you want to do what you do.
- Build a portfolio of offerings so that you can have diverse income streams.
- Have support and mentors to lean on when things get tough.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://elaynaalexandra.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elaynaalexandra11
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elaynaalexandra/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elayna-alexandra/
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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