What do you need to be an entrepreneur?
A strong mind and a tough stomach.
Being an entrepreneur is a journey filled with many peaks and valleys. One has to have a strong mind with a laser-focused dedication to meeting your goals and a tough stomach, because inevitably situations will arise that will test your mind, spirit and pocketbook.
What did inspire you to start your business?
The nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court had a very powerful impact on me. I followed the process very closely and could not help but be inspired by her story. Through her accomplishment, I decided that I wanted to be a part of a growing community of influence – Latinas.
How did you finance it?
Mostly through my own personal finances and support from family.
Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?
I am very well aware of my role as a Hispanic business owner and am committed to serving as a proud representative of our community by doing good work, delivering results and always adhering to my integrity and core values.
In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
You have to keep a positive attitude and, occasionally, put your blinders on, cover your ears and forge right on through.
What is the biggest challenge your business has faced?
Financing.
If you could change one thing about your business, what would it be?
We are set up in virtual offices for the time being. I miss the hustle and bustle of city streets but I know we will be setting up shop downtown in due time.
What was your childhood ambition?
My childhood ambition was to become a television reporter and have my own Oprah-like show. I can still make that happen, right?
Tell us about three entrepreneurs that you admire?
• David Nixon, CEO of The Nixon Group, a social marketing firm I worked for immediately out of college. I stayed for many years because of what I saw in David. A fun and easy-going personality with an unwavering commitment to making sure staff members advanced in their careers. His leadership style is one I try to model with Sánchez Ricardo.
• Ann Walker Marchant, CEO of The Walker Marchant Group (WMG), a crisis communications firm in downtown Washington, D.C. I spent several years leading very intellectually complex and demanding accounts at WMG. My time there equipped me with the skill sets needed to provide my clients with expert-level counsel on elevating their strategic direction.
• Brian Fernandez, CEO of Symfodium, a Washington, D.C.-based technology and data integration company. Brian started his journey shortly before me. His enthusiasm, positive attitude and good-natured spirit is absolutely contagious and inspiring.
For business meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
If there is an opportunity to generate business, my preference is not a factor.
What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
I’ve had to significantly cut down on my personal expenses. Meaning: no vacations, no shopping sprees, no fancy restaurant outings.
What is your favorite quote?
"There are things that are known, and things that are unknown. And in between, there are doors." William Blake
Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Not at all. Being an entrepreneur requires out-of-the-box thinking in order to address the multiple challenges you will face throughout your journey.
Biggest mistake made?
Not asking for help.
Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Yes. As a strategic communicator, you do not just follow other people’s leads. Rather, you want to frame the discussion in which others will be partaking. This requires a careful balance of innovation and strategic thinking.
About the Company:
The Sánchez Ricardo Agency is a woman-owned communications firm in Washington, D.C. that conceptualizes and implements communications strategies for businesses, government agencies and non-profit organizations. The Agency’s core practice areas are corporate communications, public affairs, social marketing and multicultural outreach with an emphasis on Social Media and Web 2.0 Strategy, Coalition Building and Niche Media Relations.
For more information, please visit http://www.sanchezricardo.com/.
1 comment:
It's always a comfort to have your family's support in times of adversities.
Tracy, Status Now
Post a Comment