Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alexandra Canedo, Founder of HQ Alchemy, located in San Francisco, CA, USA.

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

My business provides Fractional COO leadership and systems strategy. My mission is to help women founders gain back time, clarity, and momentum.

Tell us about yourself

After over a decade leading operations at VC-backed startups, I pivoted to only focus on bootstrapped and private small businesses founded by women. I'm super passionate about helping women build wealth and lifestyle businesses that prioritize impact, profit, and time freedom over growth at all costs. It's never been more possible than in this modern era, and I find it so exciting.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Within three months of starting my business full-time, I was fully booked with clients. I'm super proud of that because it was in the thick of poor market conditions.

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

I know many people say, "having to wear all the hats," but that's actually what I love. I think the hard part is knowing if you're putting on the right hat each day. Am I focusing on what's going to move the needle toward my goals? There is a lot of taking action without knowing what the result will be or not seeing the fruits of that action until months later.

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

  1. Choose 2 - 3 goals and focus on those fiercely for at least six months. Minimize distractions and shiny object syndrome as much as possible.
  2. Social media is not as important as growing your network (for many service businesses). It just feels important because everyone obsesses over it. Spend those hours attending events, making introductions, and showing up in networking groups instead.
  3. Deliver to your customers/clients! If you're spending a lot of time on marketing and sales while underdelivering to customers, you'll constantly be looking for more.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.hqalchemy.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hqalchemy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexecanedo/


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.