We were lucky to catch up with Dr. Marquia Whitehead recently and have shared our conversation below.

Dr. Marquia, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your business sooner or later

Honestly, I believe in God’s timing. If it was too early, I would not have the same knowledge, experiences, connections, etc. We do not realize that as very young professionals, we have so much growing to do. I know there are awesome young professionals now; however, I know that I would not have been ready. My knowledge has expanded greatly. I know the importance of proper communication, networking, professionalism, and the list goes on. Failure and hiccups were necessary to my professional growth. I think when I started my own business was the right time according to God’s plan and my work.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

I have always been an excellent writer. It dates back to my grandmother, Mrs. Helen E. Boyd-Welch, promoting reading and writing. Although she was not a high school or college graduate, she spoke eloquently like a professor. She read books, probably 1-2 novels a week. She always discussed the importance of women being independent and knowing how to write and speak. That stuck with me throughout my schooling. I also had an awesome high school English honors teacher, Mrs. Perry, who would not accept mediocre work. She would always say, “Oh no, you can do better, Miss Whitehead.” Laziness was not accepted. Her motivation also made me grow into writing. Although both have passed away, I can still replay their talks (and sometimes fusses). I also had parents and my sister (who is also a successful business owner) who pushed me beyond what I thought was enough.

Fast forward to higher education, specifically my doctorate, my dissertation chair, Dr. Olivier, is one who I have always looked up to. She is strong, motivated, resilient, and just an awesome leader. She literally groomed me into the professional I am today. I was very young starting my doctoral degree (24 to be exact), so I needed all of the grooming possible. She helped with that! I remember her telling my son, “Your mama is brilliant.” That absolutely made my day! I knew that my expertise had to grow beyond the classroom.

Providing the background of those people helps individuals to know why I am who I am now. In my business, I have helped individuals obtain high-paying jobs, scholarships, etc. I have also assisted with DEI initiatives that have increased the knowledge in organizations. the connections I have made, students I have encouraged, and overall image displayed to other young girls can never compare to money. What sets me apart from others and has helped my business is the passion. I absolutely love what I do! Again, I am thankful for every hurdle, setback, issue, and “no” in the past.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Attitude is everything! I have witnessed many business owners with a great plan, great products, great services, but a horrible attitude. One thing that individuals can always say is that I am the same Dr. Kia no matter what. This is not something that I consciously do, but it is who I am. Being the person who is humble, always communicating, and down-to-Earth draws people towards you. I have a few organizations who are more than willing for me to teach workshops for them regularly. So many clients have told others about my writing services. Eventually, the word gets out and people start knowing who you are. I am always surprised by the “I have heard so much about you” comments. I always ask “I hope it’s good” lol. Overall, my attitude and persona have led the way towards building a positive reputation, topped with really, truly knowing my stuff.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I have heard many “NOs” in the past. Opportunities that I knew I would get turned out to be rejections. There were individuals who completely ignored my proposals and meeting requests. At first, I would take it very personal. Then, I had to realize that the right opportunities would happen and just fall in my lap. That is exactly how it all happened. I started to feel like Mike Jones “Back then, they didn’t want me. Now I’m hot, they all on me” lol. But seriously, I found my comfort in the NO. My sister likes to say, “The grapes were sour, anyway.” She is right! Things that are for you will happen accordingly. Since I am very big on sticking with God’s plans, I always realize He knew why I needed to not enter into that specific area or business.

Now, I hear more “YES” or “Where is she?” We have to be appreciative for not always getting what we want. There always is better waiting.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.drkiaconsulting.com/
• Instagram: drkiaconsulting
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedrkiaconsulting
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marquiawhitehead/
• Twitter: doctor_kia

Image Credits
Photography by: Corey Frank, Owner of Spoken Red Claire Angelle, Owner of Klassic Memories

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