Today we continue our “spotlight” on a woman entrepreneur who is making her mark by setting goals and creating plans to accomplish them. In today's spotlight, notice how Linda Cotter, founder of Linda Cotter Designs, a graphic design and WordPress web design company has used three important strategies to expand her business:
1. Delegation
2. Flexibility
3. Implementation
1. Tell us about your work – what you do, where you do it and who you serve.
I am a graphic artist and fine art photographer. My goal is to help my clients produce better results through great design. Whether it is a logo, business card or website, I love to incorporates each client's unique personality and style into a fresh, simple and elegant design. I work mainly with women entrepreneurs across the nation, who are looking to up level their image.
2. What inspired you to start your business?
I have had many businesses over the years, all of which have culminated into the exciting and meaningful creative design business I now enjoy. I had a coaching business a few years ago, where I helped people discover their purpose and passion using the tools of art, writing and photography. Thanks to Joy, and to my surprise, I discovered that I was not following my own creative passion! I loved coaching but missed being in the creative flow and this design business now combines both of those talents.
3. How do you define success?
Of course my goal is to be financially successful, but not to define success solely by money and power. I think success is having the wisdom and the ability to wonder, balanced by happiness, well being and the ability to give back by helping others become successful.
4. What have you taken away from your work with Joy?
Joy has been instrumental in helping me find and acknowledge my true gifts. She has encouraged and supported me through my “fog of discovery” and given me the tools to become successful at what I love to do. Joy has given me the guidance to double my business in the last year, and the courage to think big and realize that it is possible to do what I love while earning a good income.
5. What's been your biggest challenge as a woman entrepreneur and how have you overcome this challenge?
The biggest challenge for me has been to ask for help instead of trying to do everything myself. When we are first starting our businesses, we typically do everything we can so that we can save money. We don't think we have the money to hire someone to help. My business really turned around when I got help hiring amazing people to do what I do not want to do or do not excel at doing so that I could spend more of my time in the creative mode.
6. What advice would you share with women who desire to have a successful business?
Have the courage to do what you really love and get a great coach to help you see the pitfalls and guide you through. Put systems in place early on in your business which will give you an essential foundation for growth. Watch your self talk and move in the direction of your dreams.
7. What's next for you?
I'm excited about offering a live workshop in the fall for entrepreneurs and business owners to give them advice and guidance on the key elements needed for a successful and profitable website.
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