Here at Modern Day Wife, we had the lovely opportunity to interview Marcy Newman Hess, the creator of Marcy Newman Coaching. Follow along to learn more!

What inspired you to start your own business, and how has that initial inspiration evolved as your company has grown?

My Dad encouraged me to start my business in 2008. I graduated with my master's from USC a year before then and was brand new in my role, working in a career services department for a small, liberal arts college in Los Angeles. I had no idea what I was doing and felt what I know now was major imposter syndrome at the start of my launch.

Over 15 years later, I (finally) feel more competent and confident in my business and yet I still struggle at times with not undervaluing my services, time and energy. I work with my own coaches to ensure I am self-aware and doing "the work" in order to effectively serve others.

My business is heavily relational and connecting with others and helping them feel seen, heard and valued is something I know comes naturally to me. My initial inspiration, encouragement from my Dad, has resulted in ongoing catalysts for me to seek support and guidance from other female entrepreneurs. It's ongoing. Often what we admire in others, we too possess. It's just a matter of remembering to believe in yourself and take stock of your successes.

What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as an entrepreneur, and how have you overcome them?

Not having a traditional business background or education. My education is in communications and education and my full-time career is in higher education. I have learned to outsource to people who have a specific skill-set that I lack, like website design or marketing so that I can focus on my craft of leadership and career coaching.

I also have sought out coaches to learn from and gather resources on how to become more successful. I have hired friends (and fellow entrepreneurs) for support, be it taking my professional headshots to building my website. Don't be afraid to ask for guidance especially if you are running your business without any employees (I am a one-woman show). Let your community support you. I'm a big believer in "don't ask, don't get". Let people know how they can help, be it a referral to a prospective client or an opportunity to speak in front of a group to practice. 

Can you share a pivotal moment or decision that significantly impacted the trajectory of your business?

A pivotal moment is one I am in currently. I am deciding as a newlywed and step-parent how to focus even more on my business (as I have a full-time, salaried leadership role) by finding more meaningful and time-saving ways to connect with prospective clients. I especially enjoy supporting women in career advancement, pivots, transitions, and re-entry. Being in a university and working with students and now largely, alumni, I also enjoy guiding individuals in the college to career transition. I could have used that during my time and now I enthusiastically offer that in addition to guiding individuals at all career stages. I find a lot of fulfillment, again supporting women, wives, mothers, and those looking for the empowerment and safe space to go after their dreams and goals.

The process of career coaching is so wholistic and I love to create connections around careers and professional growth. I have had conversations recently with business coaches that have inspired my approach to working with others and to devote more time and energy to cultivating powerful experiences to connect with others. Again, let your network support you, and lean in to their recommendations, referrals, and resources. They could be life-changing. I am reading a book that is doing that for me now (changing my approach and focus on growing my business) and it's called "The Prosperous Coach." I highly recommend this for anyone looking to start or grow their business.

In today's rapidly changing market landscape, how do you stay innovative and adaptable to ensure your business remains competitive?

I talk to people, follow thought leaders on LinkedIn (and Instagram) and also try to not overdue it with content. I think we can absorb "too much" around how others are marketing themselves and starting to compare. Start small, do a little each week to get you closer to the life and business you want to have, and remember it's about quality conversations, more intentional action, and not being on auto-pilot to create, do, market, email, post... I have found that when you give others (yourself included) the gift of time, being present, passionately curious, and focused, instead of doing a ton of things in one day or week, it's more productive. Slow down and I think you will enjoy the results more and see long-term success even faster.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are just starting their own journey?

Do one thing each week. Perhaps it's researching a company name/domain for your website, or surveying the market for your particular service(s). Get yourself a board of directors for your life to support you (someone to advise you with your business, wellness routine, relationship management, etc.). And schedule conversations with those you admire, whether or not you know them. Reach out and ask for some time... it's the most flattering ask when someone wants to know about you and your path. Take the time to talk with them, and in turn, they will pay it forward. Build your community and contribute to your community.

To stay up to date with all things Marcy Newman Coaching, find them on their website at marcynewmancoaching.com, and Marcy Newman Hess herself at linkedin.com/in/marcyhess!