Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in coaching but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amanda McCroskey, Founder of Hope Provides LLC, located in Nashville, TN, USA.

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

Hope Provides offers career coaching services, including assisting individuals changing careers, seeking a new job, or launching their own business. In addition, I feature resume and cover letter writing services as well as LinkedIn profile optimization. Our mission at Hope Provides is to equip, empower and encourage individuals seeking a purposeful change in their work.

Tell us about yourself

I have over 17+ years of experience in Human Resources, working in various roles, including recruiting and as a business partner. I found that the most rewarding part of my job in HR was coaching individuals with their careers and maintaining a healthy work/life blend. After receiving my master's degree in Organizational Leadership in 2020, I officially launched my coaching practice and have enjoyed accompanying people on their journey toward finding purpose in their work.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

First and foremost, providing hope, resources, and a safe space for individuals who desire to explore their career options. It's exciting to watch the lightbulb appear and for each client to have their "aha" moment when they realize what it is they want to do, then together, planning out the steps that will get them there. I've had clients reach out after securing the job they wanted, thanking me for the support, and it's this that motivates me every day; it's why I do what I do.

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

As a business owner, you realize this is all up to you. You are in charge and responsible for what it takes to keep the business moving forward. This can be scary yet exhilarating. It's exciting to be your own boss and set your schedule, doing the work you love, but, on the flip side, there is the risk involved; this could fail. Through it all, though, I've found that it's vital to reflect every day on the positives and to persevere even if it feels like there's hardly any movement. Be courageous, and believe.

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

  1. Draft a business plan that outlines what kind of service or product you will be offering, what your target audience will be and, how will you reach them, what you will need to get your business off the ground (legalities, equipment, rental space, etc.) and how much money will it take to get you there.
  2. Study your competition, look at websites, social media accounts, and online reviews to see what others in your field are doing, how successful are they, and begin to look at what you can do to set yourself apart
    and what makes you different, what is your niche? Once you solidify this, never stop evolving as you run your business. Remain creative, always looking for ways to improve or enhance your services.
  3. Be encouraged. There is a lot to do when operating your own business, and sometimes you may want to give up, feeling like you've made the wrong decision. But keep going, do the work and focus on what will be, knowing that your hard work will pay off.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I love running my own business and don't regret a single step. Yes, there are growing pains, you're going to make mistakes and possibly miss something, but you grow and learn. And that kind of experience is priceless.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://hopeprovides.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeprovides
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeprovides/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/hopeprovides
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hopeprovides/

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.