Name of Business:
Summer Alexander Research, Inc.
How long have you been in business for yourself?:
Since 2011
Business product or service:
Market research, strategic marketing plans, marketing training & workshops
What led you to start your business?:
After working for 7 years as a Network Engineer for AT&T I received notice that my department was being downsized. With no other “career plan” in place I decided to return to school and this time around I studied marketing. Shortly after returning to school I was introduced to the owner of a multi-million dollar construction firm who was starting a new business and was hiring. I came on board as an administrative assistant and within a few months had moved into the role of marketing manager.
I helped fund the production, marketing and distribution of products by researching and presenting key market information to private investors which helped to raise over $300,000 in capital for the company. Things were going well until the owner of the business became ill and eventually passed away and I found myself yet again – unemployed.
I had a personal pity party for a few months before God very clearly told me to get over myself and MOVE! With only $26 to my name I gave birth to my business that night. I bought a domain name, built my own website and as they say the rest was history….
What kept/keeps you going during challenging times?:
The thought of having to get a job! I love being able to design and develop my own ideas – even if they don’t all turn out like I hope. I know that even when I feel like giving up I have to keep going, learn from my mistakes, listen to my clients, adjust, adopt and try again because the idea of having to reenter the workforce is not an option.
One lesson you’ve learned during your entrepreneurial journey:
Consistency is key. There have been times when clients were few and far in-between, when money was low, prospects were low and it felt like no one was paying attention but by continuing to show up every day proved to be the difference between failure and success.
One thing about your business that makes you smile: My clients. I’ve been blessed to work with very large organizations as well as one person start-ups and I don’t take it lightly that they choose to work with me on their marketing, arguably one of the most important aspects of their business growth.
Favorite motivational quote:
I am often in front of groups of people conducting training and this quote by Maya Angelou is the foundation for every presentation I give:
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Favorite Chocolate:
Milk chocolate!
