Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in consultancy but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Judy Keller, President of Keller Consulting, located in Lawrence, KS, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Keller Consulting serves a broad range of 501(c)3 nonprofits in many sectors, including social services, healthcare, education, arts and humanities, and animal and environmental welfare. From campaign consulting to resource development, we have guided and supported dozens of nonprofit organizations to reach their fundraising aspirations, raising millions of dollars to support good local works. Working alongside community-based organizations, we find a customized approach to address their fundraising needs.
Tell us about yourself
I was first drawn to this work when I saw, as a nonprofit executive in arts and humanities and social services, that the nonprofit sector was the one most actively seeking to improve lives and address societal needs. Too many nonprofits are asked to do the hardest work with the least amount of support. I'm committed to the nonprofit sector and want to make it as efficient and effective as possible. That means merging a heart for social services with a business-savvy acumen. Nonprofits deal with the world's toughest problems, and they need to be as equipped as possible to make positive change. I truly believe most Americans are generous at heart. I'm passionate about connecting those who want to give with the missions they want to support.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I love working training nonprofit boards of directors and staff and seeing that, by the end of the engagement, they are better equipped to fulfill their missions.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
We have so many clients with phenomenal missions, full of staff working very hard. There is an urgency to their work. I want to see each client succeed immediately. It is hard to remember that success takes time and progress is not linear.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Surround yourself with good people. Find teammates that have different strengths than you do. Be fearless.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
My career has focused on serving others. My first job after college was building a public radio station from scratch in a rural area, where I learned to value each individual's contribution. Working in a larger university in a major urban area, I met people from all backgrounds and understood how a diversity of experience and opinion brings more stories and strengths to a team. As an executive director of a public health organization, I worked to bring people from across the political spectrum together for a single cause. I enjoy bringing people together and facilitating positive change. I try to bring these philosophies to my work with clients every day.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.kellerconsultingllc.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kellerconsulting/
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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