Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Julie Ellis, Co-President and Executive Coach of Julie Ellis & Co, located in Burlington, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a cashed-out entrepreneur turned coach. I work with women entrepreneurs who are in the seven or multi-7 figures in sales and help them get to 8-figure sales. My book, Big Gorgeous Goals (www.biggorgeousgoals.com), is a collection of stories of my entrepreneurial journey and those of others and provides a framework for those who want to step out and set goals that are so big they feel impossible.
Tell us about yourself
After my co-founders and I sold our business, Mabel's Labels, in 2015 (www.mabelslabels.com), I wasn't too sure of where I wanted to go next, but I know that we had learned so much in growing our business to 8-figure sales and 40 employees. I did a little bit of consulting and ended up running a business for someone else. But, in my heart, I knew I wanted to start and run something myself once again that I had a lot of knowledge to give back to women who were still working to grow their businesses. Every day, I'm fascinated by the problems that women entrepreneurs see in the world, which inspires them to start their businesses. I love seeing them create plans to grow and chase their dreams.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Exiting Mabel's Labels to a giant in our industry, Avery Labels, was definitely a highlight! The launch of my book in June 2022 was another highlight - Big Gorgeous Goals is now out in the world.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The cycle of continuous learning and growth can be tiring. Finding people to support you (mentors, advisors, privy council/board of directors) is so important. I think that making sure I am not an island but continue to reach out, have conversations, find sounding boards, and so on is incredibly important.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Get really clear on what you are going to do. Narrow it down. Don't try to take on too much.
- Remember you will be in a state of evolution as the business grows and changes - so will you.
- Work on creating a great company culture from the start - as the business grows, it will be somewhere people want to work.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.julieellisandco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julieellisandco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejulieellis/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-ellis/
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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