Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marla Tabaka, Founder of MTabaka Enterprises, Inc., located in Naperville, IL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a business coach for entrepreneurs with a scalable business model who are ready to grow to multiple six and seven-figure revenues. My clients are business owners who have never created a company culture before and want to improve their leadership and communications skills. There are so many things that entrepreneurs struggle with, mainly because you don't know what you don't know! Typically, my clients are stuck and need to figure out why, but they do know they are ready for a change.
Tell us about yourself
I gave up a successful career in television production when my husband passed away, and I became a single mom to our wonderful twin daughters. I decided to open a business close to home and was introduced to a business coach. Having a coach changed my life. Ultimately, I sold the business, went back to school under my coach's mentorship, and launched my practice.
Witnessing my clients thrive is motivating and rewarding. When a client comes to a session feeling down or anxious, and I can help them turn it around, that's an incredible feeling! Small business is the heartbeat of this country. If I can make even the slightest difference, I know I'm contributing to the whole.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I've won awards and have been featured in magazines, but my most significant accomplishment always takes me back to my clients. Being part of someone's life as they go from nearly broke and unhappy to a multiple six or seven-figure income and joyful life is more rewarding than I can put into words.
I'm also proud to say that I am among a very small percentage of coaches who thrive financially. It's not easy to attract your ideal client, but I've been fortunate—and busy!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
It's different for solo entrepreneurs vs. those with employees and many moving parts. There is one thing that we often have in common, though, and that's the ability to believe in ourselves and maintain a healthy mindset. It is essential to take care of yourself, both physically and emotionally. When you stop being the priority, all else can fall apart. Entrepreneurs often need help remembering that they are the foundation of their business, so they need to recharge their batteries often.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't believe you have a great idea because everyone you know tells you it is. Do your market research!
- Never go into a 50/50 partnership arrangement, and be sure to sign a partnership agreement tailored to the needs, personalities, and shortcomings of all involved.
- Hire a coach! You don't know what you don't know, and a great coach can help prevent costly and time-consuming mistakes. Engage a coach who works with mindset and strategy. One without the other doesn't usually work.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://marlatabaka.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marla.tabaka/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsmarlatabaka/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarlaTabaka
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlatabaka/
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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