We were lucky to catch up with Heather Starke recently and have shared our conversation below.

Heather , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you share an important lesson you learned in a prior job that’s helped you in your career afterwards?

In my previous career before starting my business, I worked for the Chamber of Commerce. It was through this experience that I was able to develop a vast network of professional contacts for just about anything that myself and my clients could need. These are people that I’ve sat down with 1-1 and got to know enabling me to provide excellent referral services for my clients. It was this same network of wonderful people that allowed me to be successful as a start up from the very beginning. I never advertised; I told my network that I had started a business and what I was offering. In short order, my network sent me so many referrals that I had a solid client base within the first three months of opening.
I am forever grateful for my network.

Heather , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I market myself as a professional bookkeeper and yes, I keep the books but that is only the beginning. When a new client comes on board, we get them up today date with the financials first. From there, we develop policies and procedures that work for both of us to ensure that everything is flowing correctly and efficiently. Next, we move on to the growth strategy phase to make sure that as the client’s business grows, we are prepared and have a solid plan. During the growth phase, I am able to refer my clients to other professionals that I know and trust for things that are outside of my area of expertise. My clients and I are very close and supportive of each other; my goal for all of my clients is eventually to outgrow me and need to hire someone on full time in house.

Have you ever had to pivot?

When I had my son, I was working for the Chamber of Commerce. I was informed that upon returning from maternity leave, I would be required to work from an office that is a 1 hour drive from my house 5 days per week. As much as I loved my career, I knew that I needed something with more flexibility. I still wanted to be able to support small businesses in our business community and that prompted me to start Starke Business Services.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele is to have close relationships with my current clients and always go above and beyond for them. My clients are always willing to refer me and always give me referrals. I am my clients biggest cheerleader and they are mine as well. My clients in addition to my professional network are my sole source of new business and that makes me very proud.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.starkebusinessservices.com
• Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/heatherstarkes