Alicia Joynes is the principle consultant for ANJ Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that aids with the formation of non-profits and small businesses. It is their motto to “make your dreams come true by doing the start-up work for you.” She is a strategic visionary focused on progress and is building a legacy of developing and implementing public programs to facilitate guided growth among Maryland’s youth and empowering women and young girls to be the best version of themselves.
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
I have always been ambitious and wanted to help others pursue their dreams. My father was an entrepreneur and my mother a school teacher; their combined teachings instilled a hard work ethic and a desire to create my own opportunities for the betterment of society.
Tell us about your business.
ANJ Consulting, LLC is a consulting firm specializing in social change through non-profit and small business startup, organizational capacity building, social media management and advocacy.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
For the month of January we will be offering 10% off of nonprofit 501c3 applications for those looking to start a non-profit.
Where is your business based?
Maryland.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
- Prayed
- Asked God for his favor and guidance
- Became a subject expert in the services we offered by going through the process myself or attending conferences/workshops/trainings that keep me abreast of the latest best practices in the industry.
- Wrote a business plan
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
Word of mouth has been the most effective promotional tool. We pride ourselves on providing superior quality service, friendly customer service and attention to detail to those who entrust us to make their dreams come true.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Becoming a provider to private and federal entities.
How did you overcome these challenges?
Networking and relationship building are major keys to overcoming the “foot in the door” barriers. While waiting for that right connection, it’s imperative that you be true to yourself and your capabilities.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
Do things that make you happy to avoid burnout and surround myself with positive people who keep me focused. It is so easy to fall into a dark place when times get difficult, but FAITH is so important during difficult times.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
I don’t compare. I focus on my customers’ needs and help them see that my services are an investment rather than a purchase into their dream.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
If the plan doesn’t work, change the plan, not the goal.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Stand firm and enjoy your process.
What are your favorite business tools/resources and why?
Canva and Desygner are my favorite promotional tools. They are free apps that allow you to design marketing materials.
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
#GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso revealed to me that being successful isn’t about where you went to college or how popular you were in high school. It’s about trusting your instincts and following your gut; knowing which rules to follow and which to break. It helped me embrace my inner boss within.
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
I am currently looking into being a certified vendor/trainer for public/private and federal entities to fulfill organizational capacity and professional development needs.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
- Over the next several months I would like to increase my clientele by 5%.
- I will be hosting a free startup launch session in 2018 and increasing subject knowledge content on social media.
- I will also be increasing my online presence with the launch of our newly redesigned website.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @anjconsults
Website (Coming Soon) www.anjconsulting.net
Hashtags #anjconsults #ambitiousgirl