t i d i d e h s How
April, 2016
An Interview With A Local Business Woman | By: NEISSHA KING |
Holly Jones
Co-Owner, Verde Logistics You Have to Trust Yourself to Make It! Holly is truly a go-getter. No stranger to the business world, she comes from a successful family (her father is in a similar business). Yet her desires were not that of her father’s, she actually had aspirations of becoming a doctor, but life had a different course of action. After finding herself divorced and a single parent, she decided to join the family business. The biggest risk I’ve taken: Is starting my own business. My father presented me with an opportunity, guidance and some start-up money, and therefore I decided to take a chance. It was never my goal to be a business owner. Six years into the business, six employees later, I am glad that I did. Business lessons to remember: You have to trust that you can make it. During the first year it was extremely challenging. Even though I was the only employee, the business did not make any money … actually, it lost money. There were times I was unable to receive a paycheck, yet as a single parent I had to support myself and my son. I sought out additional ways to bring in income, which was extremely exhausting as I not only spent hours in the business, but on a second job as well. I quickly realized the business would have to make money in order to move forward. I advise, only keep going forward if you can see the light at the end of the tunnel, I was able to see that light. I trusted myself to make it. I’ve also learned that it is important not just to work in the business but on your business. When you are the only one, you’re really an employee and your own boss. You have to be willing to hold yourself accountable as you would any other employee. You’ll never regret: Taking a leap of faith to start the business. The moment I knew I made it: Hearing that I was Home Depot’s largest woman-owned transportation provider. My everyday mantra: Pre-plan your day. Time management is an absolute must. You have to set and be committed to your daily priorities. I’m glad that I’ve never: Given up. There are times it can become quite over whelming and I’ve thought about quitting, but my pride won’t allow me to do so. I’ve never wanted to be seen as the one who couldn’t make it. I wanted to prove to myself, and others, that I can do it and I’m thankful that I am. My greatest joy: Being able to build my dream home and provide a lifestyle for my family that I’ve always desired. The Legacy She Desires to Leave Behind Building a family business that grows for generations to come. 20
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