Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business consulting and services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mandy McIntyre, Owner of Level Up Consultants, located in Solon, OH, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Level Up is a consulting service based on leadership and company culture to attract, engage, and retain your team in the roofing and construction industry. Our unique programs in mental health awareness and diversity, equity, and inclusion will enhance your leadership, company culture, and recruiting efforts.
Tell us about yourself
After the death of a coworker from an overdose, I saw the desperate need for mental health awareness in the construction industry. I did a lot of research and found horrible statistics for substance use disorder, alcoholism, and mental health issues. The most alarming was suicide - the construction industry has the highest suicide rates than any other industry.
The more I talked about it with other industry professionals, the more I realized there was a need for education and resources. So, after nearly 10 years working for a roofing contractor, I decided to resign as Vice President (something I worked really hard to achieve) and start my own business.
I became an instructor for Mental Health First Aid through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing and started offering trainings. I already had training in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and Leadership Principles from Cornell and Harvard, respectively. Although it was a scary leap of faith, I had the confidence that there was a huge void in the industry with company culture regarding mental health, DEI, and leadership - all topics I loved and areas I excelled in.
The motivation for what I do is endless, knowing what I'm doing has the potential to save lives and engage people to be their whole, authentic selves in their work environments.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is really the satisfaction I have every time someone asks, "what do you do for a living" and being able to say proudly: I have my own business. Best feeling ever.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
It's a constant hustle when launching a business. It's all-encompassing, and there are really no days off. Yes, you can make your own schedule, but launching is a huge undertaking and challenge. It's the hardest thing I've ever had to do but also the most rewarding.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- You're going to have awful, horrible, stressed-out days. Keep going; it gets better.
- Don't worry about getting a "no" from a potential client. No is not an answer; it's an opportunity for something else.
- Schedule self-care time. It's vital to your overall well-being and health. You need dedicated time to rest, reset and recharge.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://levelup-consultants.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/levelup.consultants.mm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/levelup.consultants/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-mcintyre/
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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