We recently connected with Nicole Turner and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Nicole thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.
My organizational consulting company focuses on creating people-centered workplaces and “detoxing” toxic work environments. Honestly, the idea found me. With every job I had, since starting my professional career, people would come to me to vent, seeking guidance for a work situation that was not only impacting their work life, but was also impacting their personal life and overall wellbeing. As someone who sees gaps and tries to find ways to fill those gaps, I noticed that in the organizations where I worked, the people side of “business” was lacking. A lot of leaders didn’t see employees as human beings; therefore, they didn’t treat them as such. I was dumbfounded by the fact that a lot of the leaders had amnesia. They forgot what they wanted from their leadership as they were moving up the ranks and what they still wanted at their current level. Also, as someone who “fought” for employees, I became a target for leadership. Once I had a boss (an executive) tell me that I’m on the “list” because I won’t conform. I’m too tight with the Union. I’m too ambitious, and I am seen as a threat. It was evident in the way they treated me that she was right. Based on how she also treated me, she apparently thought it too. I begin to think, “this type of behavior isn’t unique to the organizations where I’ve worked. Toxic work environments exist in all industries.” I can be more impactful and have a greater reach if I worked for myself. Plus, it’s hard to change work culture from the inside.
I offer my clients a unique approach. That approach pulls from my upbringing in Mississippi. I give my clients Southern Hospitality. This creates a positive and welcoming atmosphere that makes clients feel valued, understood, and respected. In addition to giving Southern hospitality, I meet them where they are, and I offer customized solutions to fit their needs. My approach establishes strong relationships built on trust and genuine care, ultimately leading to client satisfaction.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am a multi-faceted professional known for my expertise in helping organizations create people-centered workplaces, serving as an advisor during organizational change, and providing guidance to small businesses. My diverse skillset also expands to being a mindset coach, author, speaker, and podcaster.
Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to transforming workplaces into environments that prioritize the well-being and growth of individuals. As an organizational consultant, I collaborate with companies to develop strategies that foster a positive culture, employee engagement, and overall organizational effectiveness. My deep understanding of human dynamics and organizational behavior enables me to guide leaders and teams through complex change initiatives, ensuring a smooth transition and maximizing the potential for success.
In addition to my work with organizations, I have a passion for supporting small businesses. As a small business advisor, I provide valuable insights and strategies to help entrepreneurs and startups thrive in competitive markets. My role involves helping entrepreneurs navigate the challenges and complexities of running a small business while maximizing their potential for success.
Recognizing the power of mindset in achieving personal and professional success, I serve as a mindset coach. I help individuals overcome limiting beliefs, develop empowering perspectives, and cultivate a growth mindset. Through my coaching, I guide clients in setting and achieving meaningful goals, unlocking their full potential, and creating a life of fulfillment and purpose.
As a prolific author, I share my knowledge and experiences through my books, which cover topics such as personal development, leadership, and creating thriving work environments. Also, as a sought-after speaker, captivating audiences with my engaging and insightful presentations on various subjects related to organizational dynamics, leadership, and personal growth.
I also extend my reach through my Detox for Your Life™ podcast, where I share valuable insights, and practical advice with my listeners.
With my diverse range of skills and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact, my goal is to continue to be a driving force in transforming workplaces, empowering individuals, and helping organizations and businesses thrive in today’s dynamic world.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
I initially started my business as a side hustle. When my business became my full-time job, it was definitely an adjustment from working a six-figure job where I knew every two weeks what my direct deposit would be. During my first year, there were moments when I wondered if I should just get another job. Not knowing from month-to-month what I would be bringing in as an organizational consultant weighed heavily on me. The real test came when I was offered a job making almost $80K more than the previous six figure salary I had. The business revenue wasn’t coming in (yet) as I hoped, so this offer (from a financial perspective) was something worth considering. In the end, I declined the offer because I wasn’t ready to give up on myself. It is very different when you have job security while you work your side hustle versus when your side hustle become your main hustle. The uncertainty of it all could definitely impact someone mentally, emotionally, and even behaviorally. Ironically, I had a great sense of peace in the uncertainty. That peace was also accompanied by the freedom I felt working for myself. Giving up and accepting a job that would have paid me more than I’ve ever made working for an employer would have been easy. Pushing through the uncertainty and the unknowing demonstrated my ability to adapt, bounce back, and recover from adversity, challenges, and life stressors. A few weeks after turning down the job, I landed my first big contract.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
So far, the best source of new clients has been word of mouth and Linkedin. Networking and building relationships are very important, but some of my new clients came from the personal relationships I have – those who know me personally recommended me to those who had a problem they believed I could help them solve. I often joke that I should have stock in Linkedin as much as I push it values. Given the nature of the work I do, Linkedin is the best place for me to get clients. Linkedin enables me to network, establish myself as a thought leader, and is a powerful tool for identifying and connecting with potential clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nicolelturner.com/
- Instagram: theculturepro
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theculturepro
- Twitter: theculturepro
- Other: Detox For Your Life website https://www.detoxforyourlife.com/ Detox For Your Life Instagram https://www.instagram.com/detoxforyourlife/ Detox For Your Life podcast https://detoxforyourlife.podbean.com/ My books https://www.amazon.com/stores/Nicole-L.-Turner/author/B00U681N02