Patricia Hayes is an executive advisor, career empowerment coach, and authentic networking strategist. I am always so excited to be in a (virtual) room with Patricia. Her unique blend of expertise and experience and absolute authenticity is powerful and exhilarating to be around. I seriously learn something from Patricia every time our ABA Mastermind meets. You can learn more about Patricia and how she helps entrepreneurs and professionals uplevel their careers on her website at patriciavhayes.com.
First things first – what would your walk-on-stage music be?
“Take Me As I Am” by Mary J. Blige
When did you start your business, and why did you create it?
June 2010— Layoff from a C-suite political position
Tell us about your business and what makes you unique in your field.
My business is focused on guiding professionals and entrepreneurs to take empowered action to up-level their careers and achieve their goals while building sustainable authentic networks and professional relationships. What makes me unique is the compilation of all of my skills and background (as a lawyer, senior policy/legislative executive and strategist) that I use to provide unique insights and guidance.
What do you feel makes your audience special?
I believe what makes my audience special is their intention to not only grow professionally, but to do so in a matter that aligns with their long-term personal goals as well and to act with integrity throughout the process. In today’s world, taking action in integrity is seemingly a lost art.
If you could magically give all of your community members one thing in this world, what would it be, and why?
I would give them the gift of taking action without fear of the future results. When you can take action confidently and in an empowered manner, it allows you to be visionary and see the future with hope instead of the through the blinders of fear.
Has anything surprised you about starting a business?
Probably the level of resilience that it creates for you personally and professionally. Could never have anticipated some of the experiences and challenges I have had!
Did you create your own website or hire it out? Do you use WordPress?
First time, I hired someone. Second time/update, I did my own. Last update I paid someone again, but I do my own maintenance.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about starting their own business?
THINK LONG AND HARD—You truly must be all in on YOU. Period. And be willing to ask for help from not-so-obvious resources.
If you could go back in time and do something differently, what would you do and why?
I would take action sooner, faster and with more confidence, less fear of the “what ifs” and the “what will they think?” thoughts.
Do you have an email list? If so, did you start it when you launched?
Yes, I have a small list for supporters and potential clients that I started when I began coaching. I have always had an “unofficial” list of contacts that I keep close for professional networking list. I call this my “leaders” list.
Is this your only job? Did you launch your business while working another job?
I am a full-time entrepreneur engaged in coaching, executive advising, and strategic planning work. When I launched the coaching aspect of my work, I was engaged full-time as an independent lobbyist and legislative policy consultant.
How do you promote your site?
I promote my website by including it (or links to it) on all of my social media platforms, in emails, and by sharing it directly when I speak at events.
Who are your favorite bloggers or podcasts right now?
Oh my—so many options to choose from! One of my longtime favorite podcasts is Read to Lead with Jeff Brown. It is a great podcast focused on learning about professionals from different sectors who have leveraged a book to expand their growth in the marketplace. Jeff is a great interviewer and pulls out the nuggets that make it worth the listen. One of my old favorites is Entrepreneurs on Fire by John Lee Dumas. I learned a lot about being an entrepreneur by listening to this podcast.
One of my current favorites is Hello Seven by Rachel Rodgers. I love her down-to-earth manner, truthfulness, and focus on empowering women of color in their business growth.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’m looking forward to growing my business and my thought leadership platform in 2023 to provide greater support to those who need my guidance. To accomplish this, I will be focused on increasing my public speaking and training opportunities, engaging in some writing projects and launching a new audio course. It will be a busy year!
