This week I checked in with Gail Golden, subject of my column “Downsized? Don’t Despair, Launch a Startup,” which was posted on June 30, 2009. I wanted to know how this focused, smart entrepreneur was doing in this rocky economy. She had her game plan back then, but I wanted to hear what really happened. Here’s the scoop:
She is doing great! What a transition from just opening her doors (though she had previously owned a business for several years) to having several colleagues, a staff member and 19 clients. As we spoke, her story is one that is important for every After 55 to hear. At the six-month mark, it felt like she had been working and working and working, and not much was happening. She cites this as her lowest point . . . and two weeks later, the phone started to ring. At first she wasn’t sure she could trust the change, but when it continued she knew she had entered a new phase of her startup. Here are the lessons:
- Have a plan. Gail started out by using The Art of the Start by Guy Kawasakias her blueprint.
- She networked her heart out, including most meals and coffee most work days. She followed up all referrals and contacts.
- She added everyone to her database so she could keep in touch.
- She leveraged contacts into teaching a course at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
- She leveraged contacts into being one of three authors for a book on one of her areas of expertise.
- When the tide began to turn, she added an assistant who is interested in her business and, therefore, can be a true asset to her practice.
- She is actively considering how best to keep up the marketing/networking now that she has a strong client base.
Gail Golden proves that with hard work, a plan and a smart approach, you can start a successful business, even in these uncertain times.