This week has been interesting to say the least. Yesterday. I attended a workshop by Google for Black businesses. Later that night, a mingler at a co-work space. Then, a play at a youth program I use to attend. Today, I dragged into an elevator pitch competition, in pain and embarrassed. I was wearing shades that aren't even cute. It felt rude. But, I got through it! I pitched my business as a simple events planning company with a special interest in certain populations. My personality helped me through it, and the judges noted that it helped for me to ask for forgiveness in advance. They encouraged me to memorize my words next time around. I'm happy to have attended, as some of the panel represented companies I've long desired to work with. Honestly, I almost left before it was my turn. Perseverance pays off!
Lessons learned? Even if you feel crappy, show up to events that matter. While you're there, explain yourself if you need to, we humans tend to be pretty understanding to people who try! While there, connect with as many people as you can, even if they're your "competition".
I went to a quick lunch with one of my classmates who pitched today. On paper, he seems like a clear winner - hard assets for his business, a veteran, and proven success. He actually said he needed to be more like me in my pitch. According to him, I exuded confidence and seemed relaxed while he was nervous. I was thinking that if I was an investor, I'd likely choose him over me, no matter how well my pitch went. Overall, a wide array of friends would make any entrepreneur a better person. I'm going to try to make myself more concrete in assets and numbers to sell better on paper, like my veteran competitor. And set up another meeting with our shared business counselor. Tennessee really is full of amazing resources for entrepreneurs!
Today's homework was - fix my website, do some follow up, and attend the Quick books event tonight. Here's one more bit for myself. Write another blog tomorrow. See you soon!
Lessons learned? Even if you feel crappy, show up to events that matter. While you're there, explain yourself if you need to, we humans tend to be pretty understanding to people who try! While there, connect with as many people as you can, even if they're your "competition".
I went to a quick lunch with one of my classmates who pitched today. On paper, he seems like a clear winner - hard assets for his business, a veteran, and proven success. He actually said he needed to be more like me in my pitch. According to him, I exuded confidence and seemed relaxed while he was nervous. I was thinking that if I was an investor, I'd likely choose him over me, no matter how well my pitch went. Overall, a wide array of friends would make any entrepreneur a better person. I'm going to try to make myself more concrete in assets and numbers to sell better on paper, like my veteran competitor. And set up another meeting with our shared business counselor. Tennessee really is full of amazing resources for entrepreneurs!
Today's homework was - fix my website, do some follow up, and attend the Quick books event tonight. Here's one more bit for myself. Write another blog tomorrow. See you soon!