We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Cynthia James a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Cynthia, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Has Covid resulted in any major changes to your business model?
I was working in dual capacities. I saw clients in person and some remote. The in person business far outweighed the remote. When Covid hit I was forced to close my office and move my business home. The remote business at the time was not totally sustainable. So, I created a letter to my clients and shared that I would be happy to work with them remotely. Especially, since so many people were struggling during the pandemic. Then, I shared on my social media platforms that I was open for remote clients. The response was amazing. My roster immediately filled. Even with International clients. It was in that moment that I realized I had been thinking too small. I could serve more people by making my business entirely remote.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am an Emotional Integration Leadership Coach and transformational specialist. I have guided thousands of people to make changes at a deep level for lasting healing in their lives. I invite participants into INQUIRY, INTROSPECTION, AND INTEGRATION. This is a three prong approach to healthier living and thriving in business. Advanced Awareness Leadership Coaching offers depth, focus, and results for high-level business creatives.
I have completed two master’s degree programs; one in Consciousness Studies from the Holmes Institute and the other in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica. My practice uniquely combines the creative arts with innovative therapeutic techniques to bring powerful personal growth and expansion to individuals of all ages, cultures, and lifestyles, including facilitating the message of her bestselling and award-winning books, “What Will Set You Free”, Revealing Your Extraordinary Essence”, “I Choose Me: The Art of Being A Phenomenally Successful Woman at Home and at Work” and latest book, “Does My Voice Matter? A journey of Self-Discovery, Authenticity and Empowerment.”
All of my products are focused on healthy living. Weather is books, meditation CD’s, or online classes…my intention is to support people in creating healthy lifestyles.
How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?
At the beginning of the concept of my business I had a full time job. I wanted transition to be easy. So, I called myself a parallel-preneur, a name I heard from coach Lisa Nichol.s. `I took a portion of my salary and put it in a business account. I told myself that my current job was an investor in my business. When I felt ready, I took part of the funds and entered a leadership growth program. I didn’t know what I didn’t know. Through that program and working with a coach assigned to me, I got clear on my focus, messaging and perfect client. I invested in marketing and social media support and built a list. I started small and shared an office with other coaches. Once my business began to grow, I left my full time job. My business is succesful and I still put a percentage of my income towards marketing.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
This was an interesting journey for me. I wasn’t clear about the value of social media and how it could inform my growth. I had fans in my community that wanted to support me and help me build my social media presence. They were kind and caring people. AND they were not social media experts. I spent time and money that didn’t help me grow. Finally, I met a woman whose passion was social media and she shared with me the mistakes I had been making and what was possible. She cost much more than the people that had supported me. I decided to take a leap and work with her for six months. The shift was immediate. We created different messaging for different platforms and consistently posted. My followers quadrupled in a year. What I learned is invest with people that are experts and that understand you passion and goals. This is a part of your marketing strategy and is essential. Especially, today when so many people seek support through social media.
I have a social media team today and thousands of followers worldwide. I am so grateful I decided to invest in the visibility of my business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cynthiajames.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthiajames777/
- Facebook: @cynthiajamestransforms
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-james-~-international-coach-and-tedx-speaker-6105605/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cynthiajamestransforms
- Other: Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TomlY22qZMI
Image Credits
Carl Studna Photography