Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Beth Carter, Founder of Beth Carter Enterprises, located in Warren, Rhode Island, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a human capital leadership and development specialist that provides executive, business, and career coaching services, corporate trainings, and keynote presentations. My clients include Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, universities and colleges, non-profits, and associations.
Tell us about yourself
I have been an executive recruiter for over 30 years and have had my own firm for most of that time (Carter Consultants Ltd.) I expanded my business by offering coaching and training to leaders, high-potential employees, and new managers. I also provide outplacement services for those that are not a good fit with their existing employer. I strive to motivate leaders to be inspired every day and assist those they manage. I like people to “learn one new thing a day,” and I aim to help others with that goal.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I like to be able to create my own strategies, programs, blogs, etc., that help others be successful and fulfilled in their careers.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Balancing it all. Besides all that I listed above, I am the Executive Director of the Rhode Island Business Competition, a small non-profit that helps foster economic development in the State. I am also an Adjunct Professor at Bryant University (my alma mater) and Roger Williams University.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Determine your per-hour rate. If you bill $100/hour and work eight hours but only bill two, you are only really making $25.00 an hour.
- Hire experts (i.e., accountant, lawyer, web person), etc. It is not the best use of your time struggling to do some of these things.
- Recognize that a passion is not a business. Interview competitors or at least talk to those that are in similar industries. Ask them what is good, bad, and ugly.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Get yourself a business advisor/coach or a Board of Directors (group of advisors even if you are a private company) that can offer advice but, more importantly, can push back when you can’t see beyond your own ideas.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://bethcarterenterprises.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bethcarterenterprises/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethcartercoach/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-carter-9b496b2/
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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