Lorraine Lane
Lorraine Lane tells us that, “As a business coach, I teach my clients to pull away from the cookie-cutter crowd of small business owners, find their uniqueness, and make an extraordinary and unique impact to attract their ideal clients and expand their business reach.”
What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your corporate journey/venture/initiative.
I was a good student and loved learning. When my mother went back to work as a nurse, I helped to care for my two younger brothers. I always excelled in whatever I took on in studies or work.
Every industry that is now a large-scale, top-notch business once started as a small idea in the minds of entrepreneurs. What was that idea or motivation that made you start your business /initiative? What motivated you within to say YES, go for it!”
Actually, I never said, “yes”. Mostly, I entered into the world of business ownership kicking and screaming! It was a world of mystery and confusion. To say that I had an idea or motivation would be to mislead you. I simply accepted any freelance work that came my way to pay the bills and had no intention of starting a business. Twenty years later, I will admit that I made many mistakes. However, I learned from them. What I would do differently now is – to ask for help much sooner.
Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity?
If given the opportunity, I’d like to see women entrepreneurs find a good mentor or coach to act as a guide as you embark on this journey which takes courage and support.
Women are a growing force in the workplaces worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. There are cracks in glass ceilings everywhere, with many women breaking through to carve out a space right at the top of the pyramid. What are your thoughts about women leadership today?
I’d like to see more women taking leadership positions and have a louder voice in speaking about what they stand for without creating factions but bringing knowledge and information to the front of the room.
What’s the most important thing you have learned in your personal life and professional journey? What is your personal motto in life?
Asking for help is a strength not a weakness. And, ask the right people. Find your voice!
With your grit and determination, you are making a considerable impact, breaking through, and serving as role models for many budding entrepreneurs. What would you want to say to our young women leaders/audience reading this?
Listen to your own voice and listen to the voices that inspire you. Take a minute to ask yourself if this feels right before you jump in with both feet.