We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Annette Weeks. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Annette below.

Annette, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Nine years ago, I took a risk and left a job to go to MWSU to create a Center for Entrepreneurship. In that time period I was able to assist over 800 people wanting to start or improve their business. Starting a business is all about risk. My goal was to help them think things through enough that it is a risk that you are prepared for. It was amazing to help people through the overwhelming aspects of launching a business.

Previously, I started an antique mall. . Along with my partner, we grew the business to be 400 dealers. We also started a craft mall, as well as a convenient store.

Four months ago, I practiced what I preached and went back to my own entrepreneurial roots to start my own business. I am helping businesses to put a solid foundation of good business practices in place. It is exciting to be able to work closely with the owner to set goals and create the strategy to achieve them.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

While being at Missouri Western State University, as well as the nonprofit Northwest Missouri Enterprise Facilitation as their business facilitator, I have assisted over 1,800 entrepreneurs. That is an enormous number. It is amazing to have served that many people in working towards their business dream. From this experience, I have coached in almost every industry. Having previously owned my own business, as well as coached many many entrepreneurs I bring a very practical and grounded understanding on what it takes to make a successful business.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I have built my reputation by putting priority on those we serve. By practicing servant leadership, I truly care about the success of my clients. My goal has always been to build trust and respect, In helping the client achieve their goals by focusing on their needs and interests.

Have you ever had to pivot?

In my lifetime, I have had to pivot many times. At the age of 24, my husband died and we had twins that were fourteen months old. That taught me quickly that life is not easy and you have to continually figure out life to survive. That made me learn resiliency early on.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.aspirebusinessconsult.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annette-weeks-a6912a8/