Today we’d like to introduce you to Liz Russell
Hi Liz, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Pre-business, it all started with my own need to meet new friends in a whole new area, co-leading a Facebook group that grew to over 4,000 members and leading several events and meetups for myself and others.
I learned the importance of self-care and perseverance by quitting my previous role to lead a more valuable life without the restrictions of working under someone else. I have experienced many lows and highs through the duration of my small business career but wouldn’t have it any other way.
My success was also built upon the connections I’ve formed within the community. As a business owner, it’s so very important to have partnerships and the support of your community learn from one another and grow. Combining the skills or value that each business brings to the table can be magic.
With my several years of experience in event planning, building personal and professional connections and a social media platform, my business is well equipped to provide opportunities for friend-making, community building, and networking among female identifying business owners.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. There’s always the intruder of “Imposter Syndrome” telling you, “you aren’t good enough to do what you do”. I’ve had to reframe my thinking into “I am good enough and have a lot to offer the community.”
Comparison to others can bring me down. But if I really think about it, I know I have something unique and special to offer. There’s room for everyone to be successful.
Also, mistakes have happened for me to learn from them. I find that the more time I invest in my business, the more I grow. Year one in business is a whole different version of my today in business.
My focus is moving forward. Improving the last thing I’ve done to make a better life for myself and those around me.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
What originally started as a mission to meet new friends, became Facebook groups with thousands of members, hosting hundreds of meetups and events, and eventually evolving into a full-time business of connecting people socially and professionally through various networking opportunities.
I run two professional networking groups. One is with a friend of mine, Rachel Rowland called Eastside EntrepreneuHERs where we have two chapters in two locations in the Greater Seattle area. We provide a space for business women to seek referrals, partnerships, support and learn from business experts from within and outside of the group. These women come from various personal and professional backgrounds. It’s a true joy to be a part of.
I also run a group called BizBesties that offers a more casual environment of coffee meetups, brunches, wine tastings – a place to gather with no set agenda. They also receive complimentary and discounted admission to a variety of additional networking and business education events.
I co-lead two online Facebook communities, Eastside Women’s Social Club where women are encouraged to meet new friends and another called Business Women of the Eastside.
You’ll also find me hosting speed-friending events, partnering with local business professionals to teach a new school or hosting themed community events across Seattle’s Eastside.
I really love what I do and can’t wait to experience what’s next.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Being a small business owner, you often juggle a lot of plates from updating your website, to thinking like a CEO, to posting on social media, responding to emails, bookkeeping – you name it. It’s hard! You also only have so much time in a day.
One advice I give is never, ever be afraid to ask for help. Whether that’s literally handing off a project or seeking out a coach.
It can be costly to hire help but there are free resources out there. Join a free Facebook group where you can ask questions. Google search for local business support. There are also several free networking opportunities.
I started out very, very shy. In fact, old me would be shocked to hear that new me even leads a networking group! When you network, you never know who you are going to meet. And it always takes practice. Build your circle.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lizontheeastside.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/on_the_eastside
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ontheeastsideevents/
Image Credits
Kristina Pearl Photography and Drishti Photography LLC