Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jamelle Sanders, founder and CEO of Jamelle Sanders International, located in Gastonia, NC, USA.

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

Jamelle Sanders International is a leading global management consulting, leadership, business, and advisory firm that trains, develops, consults, and advises leaders around the world to fulfill a purpose, maximize potential, and solve complex global problems. Essentially, JSI is an empowerment firm devoted to identifying leaders, building capacity, and empowering leaders with solutions that bring change to all facets of culture and society.

Tell us about yourself

I am a life and business strategist, author, speaker, success mentor, highly respected thought leader, and consultant who advises leaders worldwide. I started JSI because I saw a vacuum of leadership in the world. At the time, I was identifying complex problems across industries and nations. However, I was not finding leaders with the capacity to bring solutions and engineer change. As a result, I started JSI out of a need to bring solutions to the problems of our time. More importantly, I wanted to train, develop and empower leaders to be the solutions to the problems and challenges of our time.

Every day, the thing that motivates me is knowing that my life and work are making a difference. I have had the pleasure of working with leaders around the world in business, media, technology, finance, government, etc. The thing that sets my soul on fire is knowing that these leaders have the tools and strategies that they need to advance their careers, move industries forward, and pioneer new grounds for generations to come.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner was being recognized as a Huff Post Icon Next. It was the pinnacle of years of hard work, sacrifice, and commitment. My business almost collapsed on three different occasions. While the odds were stacked against me and the obstacles seemed insurmountable, I bounced back, and I have built a brand that is now recognized around the world.

When The Huffington Post recognized me for excellence in leadership and business, it was a defining moment. It opened more doors for me, expanded my platform, and empowered me to have a greater influence on people's lives around the world. It is a testament to the power of hard work and never giving up. If you remain committed and strive for excellence in everything you do, you will reach mastery and become the best in the world at what you do.

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

The hardest thing that comes with being a business owner is uncertainty. In the early years, business uncertainty was almost unbearable for me. It just seemed like wave after wave of crisis was hitting my life, and I never quite felt prepared for it. However, as I kept learning and growing, I learned how to leverage crisis to my advantage.

As a result, I am now best positioned to empower leaders to navigate seasons of crisis, uncertainty, and change. One of the most important skills you can have as a business owner is adaptability. Set goals but always remain flexible in your attainment of your goals. This will save you years of stress and anxiety.

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

  1. To anyone looking to start a business today, I would tell them that this is a moment of extraordinary opportunity in the world. With that said, I would say that you have to take the time to get clear about what your business is and what will distinguish you from everyone else in the marketplace. Clarity is your greatest edge as an entrepreneur.
  2. Build key relationships in your life before you ever need them. One of the things that kept me from going under in the early years of my business was having the right relationships in my life. The right relationships, mentors, coaches, advisors, etc., can make all the difference in your success or your failure. Take the time to build relationships and maintain relationships.
  3. Make your growth and development a consistent priority. As I tell my clients all the time, you cannot build and grow a successful business if you are not constantly growing and developing as a person. The future of your business hinges on your growth and development. Invest in books, go to conferences and seminars, join professional organizations, subscribe to magazines, etc. Your investment in your continuing education is one of the greatest ways to maintain your edge as an entrepreneur. Old information will never unlock new seasons.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I would just add to never prioritize making money as the greatest goal for your business. Of course, as someone with a degree in Finance, I understand that you need money to run and maintain your business. However, I always tell my clients to build a value-based model for their business. What do I mean by that? I want you to think about the greater good you can do for your city, community, nation, and ultimately the world. In every decision you make, think about the impact you can have and the contribution you can make to the world. If you put principles and people first, then prosperity will inevitably follow you in all your pursuits and endeavors. One of the most important decisions you can ever make is to choose mission over money.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.jamellesanders.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JamelleSandersIntl
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialjamellesanders_/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JamelleSanders
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamelle/

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.