This interview project has been so gratifying for me - and beneficial I hope to the ladies I have interviewed. I know everyone who has read what they have shared has surely learned something! The project is winding down. There are a few interviews to go. And then - I have to figure out what to do with this wealth of information. I have an idea - which I'll share with you when it's all over. Meanwhile, prepare to be impressed by my latest "guest". She's an amazing woman with much to share. Meet Dana Neal!
1. Dana, will you share a bit about yourself?
Marrie
d 5 years with four children, I am the Christian Encouragement Officer for 3 self built businesses. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, I am the oldest and only girl of five.2. Tell us about those businesses.
E.S.S.E.N.C.E Of A Woman~~innovative event planners.
C.K.Q Gifts~~gifts and services
4,My Kids, Inc~~nonprofit helping families eliminate debt and provide scholarships for teens that don’t meet the 4.0 criteria.
C.K.Q Gifts~~gifts and services
4,My Kids, Inc~~nonprofit helping families eliminate debt and provide scholarships for teens that don’t meet the 4.0 criteria.
3. Why did you start your own business?
I had no choice; my youngest son was ill and needed me home. It was a snap decision.
4. What do you like most and least about being your own boss?
I don’t like the marketing side of the business. I believe I have something people want and need; I hope they would just find me. I like making my own hours and putting a lot of me into my business.
5. What personality traits and skills are needed to run a business?
You have to be a people person. You have to know that at the end of the day it is not about the money you made but the people you have helped.
6. What has been the most difficult part of being an entrepreneur?
Making ends meet every month. Especially now in this “recession” I am struggling to obtain clients.
7. Do you have any resources you have used to build your business that you would recommend?
Social/business networks are the “in” thing to promote your businesses, get advice and obtain future clients. If a business is not set in just their state social networks are the best. I love the Black Business Builders Club http://www.blackbusinessbuilders.com/?1548 (which is not just for African Americans), I love the Ryze network, Ning Network, and Briz.com.
8. Do you have any tips to share on promoting your business?
Never limit yourself. If you want to be that platinum event planner or worldwide speaker, you have to promote yourself everywhere your market is. Don’t spam anyone; work your business!
9. What other advice do you have for someone starting their own business?
Start smart; take chances on yourself. Be willing to fail and then find your way. Businesses were not made in day.
10. How can we contact you about your products and services?
http://www.essenceofawomanevents.com/
http://www.ckqgifts.biz/
http://4mykidsinc.bravehost.com/
11. Is there anything else you would like to share?
Being in business takes patience and love of self. Not selfishness, but the ability to motivate self so you can help others.
