Meet Innovative Woman Jill Bates, President of Crystal Clear Consulting and Owner of Jill Bates Fashion aka The Fashion Physician.
1. How/why did you begin your business?
I began my 1st business 30 years ago because I wanted to be home with my children as they grew up. I discovered something I liked doing and found there was a real need for my fashion service business. The best part was that I was able to earn an income doing it. One year ago this month my existing fashion business allowed me to start another service business. My new business began because I discovered I really enjoy listening to women talk about their businesses. My creative right sided brain comes up with problem solving ideas that can help women entrepreneurs grow their companies. I found there is a real need for business consulting. Crystal Clear Consulting was born. I share with women entrepreneurs how to avoid obstacles that can waste their time and money. I have learned in my previous business what not to do and what does work in a small business. As a business consultant I specialize in the areas of creativity and holistic healing. I work with clients helping them to get clear and get creative with their business. Although I don’t have young children at home any more. I do have young grandchildren and I want to be available to play with them as they grow up. My consulting service business allows me to do this.
2. What has been your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge was to not take rejection personally, especially the cost of my products and services. It took me awhile but I overcame it by realizing early on that I will charge what I am worth. I also found that the following elements helped me: networking with like minded people, taking workshops for small businesses, hiring a business consultant, listening to motivational tapes & videos.
3. How do you define SUCCESS?
Success is creating work you enjoy doing, having fun doing it, pulling in other people you like to be around to help you, the ability to lean on a positive support team like your family, giving back to your community, and earning an income.
4. If there was one thing you wish you knew before you began your business, what would that be?
The ability to read people. It is something that I have learned over the years, and it really helps me in my business. When you are able to read a person you eliminate stress and frustration on both sides. Once you have your intuition working, you have an easier time working with all types of people.
5. What makes you an innovative woman?
I consider myself an innovative woman because I live life with an open mind. An open mind allows you to be of service to others which is what business is all about. The way technology has changed our world is fascinating to me. What it has done for connecting small businesses and entrepreneurs is exciting. It allows those of us with a creative mind to reach for the stars and get there! I embrace innovation and in today’s world this allows me to get to my business ideas faster and more efficiently. The positive outcome is that I am able to connect with other business women that want to ride along with me.
To find out more about Jill, connect with her on Facebook.