Angela Mealer knew that she had a knack for using her words to encourage, build up and strengthen people – so she turned it into a business in order to reach as many people as possible. Read our interview with the lovely Angela below…
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
Realizing that I had gifts and abilities that I was supposed to share with the world and not just with a select group of individuals at one organization.
Tell us about your business.
The Polished Professional is an organization designed to assist individuals and businesses realize their highest potential through structured training and shared strategic planning. We help to increase customer satisfaction and employee retention by translating the vision of the organization through executive coaching, strategic planning, and targeted training.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
By getting clarity on the products and services that we would provide, drafting a clear vision for the firm, and then establishing long and short term goals to measure success.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
Definitely word of mouth from satisfied customers.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Understanding how to balance the growth of the organization and maintain the quality of the services.
How did you overcome these challenges?
It’s a work in progress however, choosing the right staff and training them properly is the foundation of delegating tasks within the organization and healthy expansion.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
I remember the reason that I started and the audience that I was sent to serve. By taking the focus off of my own challenges and concentrating on the mission, I can often get realigned.
How did you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
We distinguish ourselves from the competition by delivering a clear message and understanding the results that we will deliver. We don’t try to compete with existing firms, we commit to providing the best service possible based on the vision and mission that we established.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
Think bigger!
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Be careful who you take advice from. When you step out to achieve something great, there will always be people who mean well in most cases but don’t have a full understanding of what you are trying to achieve. If you accept and implement every suggestion, you will certainly lose sight of what you are supposed to accomplish. Always know your why and be prepared to defend it. Even if you change your mind, know why.
What is your favorite business tool or resource?
Mentors who are familiar with my industry whether personal acquaintances or seasoned professionals who share their stories in books, memoirs, and other media.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @angelamealer
Twitter @angelamealer
Facebook @VisionaryAngelaMealer @PolishedProMe
Website www.AngelaMealer.com www.ThePolishedProfessional.me
Hashtags #angelamealer #2020VisionForYourLife #BeBrilliant #BeVisionary
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
“The Power of Broke” by Daymond John.
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
Raising capital and finding a suitable partner.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
To take on at least 3 new clients, make my book available on audio, and secure at least one paid speaking engagement per month.