Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Linda Kneidinger, Founder of Ultimate You Life + Health Coaching, located in Westlake Village, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm a personal coach, writer, and speaker. I work with clients one-on-one and frequently present workshops to businesses, organizations, clubs, and athletic teams. My "typical" client is a 40-60 woman who doesn't feel she's honoring her needs, wants, and strengths.
It's easy for women to fall into "caretaker" roles, even at work. When my clients realize how they got where they are and how to reclaim their authenticity, they do amazing things! Due to my previous work as a school psychologist and my passion for fitness and sports, I also work with many athletes, from youth to D1 college athletes.
Tell us about yourself
Before getting certified as a coach, I worked in fields that used my graduate degrees in psychology. In all these positions, I worked for other people - schools, businesses, and private psychology practices.
I wasn't accessing the clients I desired to help, though, and I had a feeling that these individuals might be more attracted to "coaching" than "counseling." Once I finished my coaching training, I felt that opening my practice would give me the flexibility to market to the populations I was most passionate about working with.
It's easy to get motivated daily because I care about my clients. I know they're dedicated to making changes in their lives because they keep showing up. When I show up fully and give my best, I know I'm helping them achieve their desires. It's compelling and rewarding to be with someone as they make their dreams a reality.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I'm most proud that I followed through and started my practice! It's much easier to work for a big coaching firm and have clients assigned to you. My background is neurobiology and psychology - I came into this without any business skills!
I figured out how to form an LLC, learned marketing, have a website, be active on social media, and write a weekly newsletter. Every time someone "finds" me, it's gratifying to know that I effectively put myself out into the world and connected with people who desire my skills.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing about having my practice is that the need for marketing never ends! I have clients who LOVE me and have achieved amazing things while working with me, and when I REMIND them to refer me, it always results in new clients. I also need to always be on the lookout for organizations that might host a workshop.
People rarely come to me out of the blue, but when I make the time and effort to reach out, I'm always rewarded with excellent new connections and clients. As a coach one of the other challenges is that the market is FLOODED with coaches, and many have no appropriate background and skills - they're just like a good friend who listens and offers advice. I must set myself apart from these individuals without criticizing their work. It's a balancing act.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- First, seek a mentor or training. I took a business course for women, and that was highly beneficial. It taught me the concrete steps to take and provided me with a team of individuals I could consult.
- Second, be persistent. It's so true that you never know which action will take your business to the next level. Keep taking action, keep learning, and keep reaching out.
- And third - you KNOW that as a coach, I have to put a little mindset work in here - watch your thoughts! This is the number one skill ALL of my clients work on. I guarantee there's someone out there with less experience, less knowledge, and less money which made it. Why you? Why not you!!! Know who your cheerleaders are, and let them lift you when you need it.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.ultimateyou-coaching.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultimateyoucoaching
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultimateyoucoaching/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lindakneid
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-kneidinger/
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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