From 
Del.icio.us
Digg
Reddit
Facebook
StumbleUpon
TwitThis
Her business
Supplier Diversity Works LLC works with purchasing departments of major corporations and government entities to achieve supplier diversity goals. We also have a division that focuses on assisting the construction businesses with achieving good faith effort compliances for public projects. Services include minority vendor databases, vendor prequalifications, supplier diversity program development and support, and helping clients find qualified diverse vendors. We also assist the small and diverse business community in achieving their revenue and business growth goals through free notices and updates on corporate contracting and purchasing opportunities. We offer a "hands-on" tool—e-book and annual updates, tips, info, unlimited e-mail support for one year—for gaining revenues from stimulus funds.
For about 10 years prior to the founding, I owned and operated a successful consultancy for small business owners, helping them with business plans, business finance packages, and marketing strategy. This prior business resulted from the birth of my oldest son and my desire to leave corporate America to achieve that ever elusive "work-life" balance. I had enjoyed a successful career for about 10 years, in numerous areas, including process engineering, business development, financial analysis, marketing strategy, and human resources. My last corporate stint involved strategic and business planning, and I thought I could apply those skills in a small business environment, by assisting small businesses with business planning.
I was also the executive director for a regional Women's Business Enterprise National affiliate just prior to the founding. Lessons and relationships from this experience helped me to see niches and opportunities that existed in the world of supplier diversity. Thus, Supplier Diversity Works! was founded.
Her 'aha moment' or inspiration
It is not so much an "aha moment" as much as a gentle unfolding, or growing awareness, about the nature of money. That is, money is simply a tool and not a reflection of my value or self-worth. Whether I have a little or a lot does not determine who I am or my purpose here on this earth. Money is always "out there," and not dependent on the economy. The Lord will always provide what I need.
Her biggest obstacle and how she overcame it
My biggest obstacle has always been and will likely continue to be ME—my fears, my anxieties, and my ability to waver. I don't know that I will ever overcome "me" while I am in this body, but regular prayer and continual seeking to live, according to the Bible, is how I cope.
How Count Me In helped her succeed
The business coaching that I have received as a Micro-to-Millions and Sam Walton Emerging Entrepreneur Award winner has been tremendous. As the E-myth teaches, my business coach helps me to "work on my business" and not just "in my business," in order to create a growing and sustainable business. In addition, the sisterhood and support that exists through the amazing women all over the country in the Count Me In network is invaluable to me.
How she finds work life balance
Ha, ha—have I found work/life balance? It's a continual struggle, as I am the consumate, driven over-achiever. I have found that it is important to schedule time and set personal goals for myself, my family, and "down-time" activities, along with business goals and scheduling. In fact, my personal and family goals have priority over business-related ones.
Her three tips for future entrepreneurs
1. Be very jealous of your time; unlike money, it is truly a limited resource—once it's gone you won't be getting it back.
2. Understand who your customer is, why they buy, and how you meet each one's needs is an ongoing and critical action item.
3. Create (and write it down!) a business plan for success, but be flexible to adapt as markets and business conditions change.
Advertisement 
