Kristen R. Harris subscribes to the notion that every woman is full of potential and purpose but many lack the knowledge on how to get everything out that is inside of them. Kristen helps draw it out by equipping women with the tools they need to get unstuck. As a Women’s Empowerment Coach, she works as a figurative midwife, helping women realize that they are PREGNANT with purpose and PUSH past their pain to DELIVER everything that God has promised them. Read our interview with the lovely Kristen below…
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
I started my business because it was what I was naturally doing anyway. I always found myself encouraging women around me to become better. I was the one who my friends would call for advice about various life issues, so it really just came pretty naturally.
Tell us about your business.
I am a Women’s Empowerment Coach that helps women live life on purpose and grow into everything that God has created them to be. I do so through speaking platforms, as well as through written channels. To date, I have published 3 books and am I currently working on the 4th one.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
All books on my website (kristenrharris.com) are currently discounted.
List awards/certifications/accomplishments.
40 Under 40 Young Women’s Professional Awardee.
Where is your business based?
Chicago, IL (but we service national clients).
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
The first thing I did was create an online presence. Some may think this is superficial, but we live in a time where if people cannot find you online, you do not exist. Thus, I built a social media following and I created a website. Next, I started collecting photos and sound bytes of me speaking so that I could add credibility to my brand.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
Since I started my business on a shoestring budget, social media has proven to be a key factor in getting the word out about what I am doing. With the new influx of live streaming on nearly all social media platforms, I have definitely used that as an avenue to get buzz around my name. I also take advantage of opportunities to get before other people’s audiences by being a guest on podcasts and radio shows.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
My biggest challenge thus far has been breaking through to really get noticed and secure the engagements that I know I am capable of.
How did you overcome these challenges?
I haven’t officially overcome this challenge as of yet. However, one thing that I have learned over the past year is that consistency breeds success. Being consistent, showing up and constantly reminding my audience what I do is slowly opening up the right doors. Success is just a sum of small, repeated steps until you reach a desired outcome.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
To stay motivated during difficult times, I remember my “why”. Why did you start this? Why didn’t you give up the last time it got rough? Why are you so passionate about this? Answering those questions usually gives me the extra push that I need to keep going.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
I think the main thing that separates me from other people in my industry is the fact that I am extremely transparent. People connect with you when you reach their hearts.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
Budget your time as you would budget your money. Just like you should account for every dime that comes in and out of your hands, you should account for every minute of your day. Poor time and money management are the biggest detriments to entrepreneurs (and people in general).
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Reach people’s hearts and they will reach for their pockets. Focus on making genuine connections with your market. This may take some time, but the investment is very valuable in the long run.
What is your favorite business tool or resource?
Honestly, my favorite resource is my network. I have taken a great deal of care in building a web of valuable individuals who possess skills, information, and resources that I do not have. Being able to tap into my network when I have a need has been a priceless experience. As trite as it may sound, your network truly determines your net worth.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
I mostly use Instagram and Facebook. However, I have a presence on YouTube, Twitter, Periscope and LinkedIn as well.
Instagram @kristenrharris @youletmegetaway
Twitter @kristenrharris
Facebook www.facebook.com/kristenrharristhebrand
Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/empowermoments
Periscope www.periscope.tv/kristenrharris
Youtube www.youtube.com/kristenrharris
Website www.kristenrharris.com
Email me@kristenrharris.com
Hashtags #KRHInspires #EmpowerInspireUplift #WomenSupportingWomen
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
I read “Girl Boss” by Sophia Amoruso over the summer and it really changed my mindset. The greatest takeaway for me was to be authentically who I am. I don’t have to conform to what society says a ‘Girl Boss’ looks like or acts like. I can be unapologetically me!
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
In the next few months, I will be launching my first podcast so I am very excited about that. To prepare, I have been doing a lot of research, speaking with other successful podcasters and outlining and developing my content for the first season. Journeying into new territory is always a bit scary, but I am confident that this podcast will change the lives of so many people.