We caught up with the brilliant and insightful LaVerne Toombs a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

LaVerne, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Please tell us about starting your own firm and if you’d do anything different knowing what you know now.

Embarking on a full-time entrepreneurial venture required considerable effort on my part. Throughout my adult life, I had a job that provided a bi-weekly paycheck. Eventually, a consulting opportunity arose, allowing me to gain entrepreneurial experience while working full-time for several years. I had made a personal commitment to retire at 60 and semi-retired at that age, as planned.

However, I did not officially establish my business. Following the conclusion of that contract, I received a job offer as an executive director of a nonprofit organization and a VP of Development position with a national nonprofit. Neither of those opportunities proved to be a good fit. Despite my attempts to remain an employee, I felt an innate pull to establish my own business. I confided in a dear friend, expressing my desire to launch my firm officially, but my fear or my lack of faith in the unknown, including financial concerns. Fortunately, my friend decided to invest in my firm by paying for my certification to become a women-owned business. The process of becoming a certified women-owned business was not easy, but it was worth it. I took that pay it forward as a cue to leap of faith to launch my consulting firm. In January 2024, I officially launched my firm, developed a website (www.ltright4u.com), became a member of business organizations, and shared that I was open for business. Later, I successfully became a certified women-owned business. I shed tears for months and felt guilty for having time on my hands—something I wasn’t accustomed to having time for. However, I eventually overcame those feelings and am now savoring the freedom of being a boss.

While I never considered myself an aggressive entrepreneur, I knew my skills would be valuable to many nonprofit organizations and for-profit entities. I have acquired several significant clients and am generating more revenue than my previous jobs. One of the key factors in my success has been the ability to delegate and build a team. I have contracted with consultants to join the Right 4U, LLC team. The process of finding the right consultants and building a team was not easy, but it was crucial for the growth of my business.

Anyone interested in starting a business requires discipline. You no longer have to answer to your employer but to yourself. Look at your business like you would at having a dream home. Start with a desire, plan (strong foundation), and understand your niche (you want to be different). You have competition, but what sets you apart? I used this analogy: McDonalds, Burger King, and Wendy’s all sell hamburgers, but what sets them apart? Also, tap into your skillset and only perform what you are familiar with. I’ve seen business owners venture into areas outside of their expertise because money is involved. Only travel down your lane of experience and continue to learn and connect with other entrepreneurs. Lastly, make sure you take time for self-care, because you are the most important asset in your business.

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?

LaVerne has been pivotal in fostering inclusivity and awareness for minorities locally and nationally. Her warm and infectious personality recently earned her the prestigious role of an official TEDx speaker, where she not only captivates diverse audiences with her inspiring survivor’s journey but also inspires them with her powerful messages.

LaVerne’s illustrious career includes her roles as the regional manager for former United States Senator Mary Landrieu and the New Orleans Regional Black Chamber of Commerce executive director. She also served as the interim Chief Administrative Officer for community outreach, alum affairs, and public relations at Southern University at New Orleans. As an adjunct instructor for a local community college, she imparts her knowledge through popular beginners and advanced Grant Writing courses.

LaVerne is also a dedicated entrepreneur, having founded Right 4 U, LLC, a management consulting firm deeply committed to assisting the social sector—nonprofits, philanthropic, and government organizations—in creating equitable outcomes by developing goals, objectives, and priorities for existing and future programs and services.
As an award-winning best-selling author and contributing author of Quick and Easy Steps to Starting a Profitable Home-Based Business, featured in Essence magazine, Tips for Successful Grant Writing, and My Walk Past Hell, Vol 3, LaVerne has made a significant impact. She also serves on the board of various notable community organizations and has been recognized by several national, state, and local organizations for her role as a change agent.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, one constant remains unchanged: robust networks ignite business success. I have been successful in recognizing networking as pivotal for unlocking new opportunities, fostering client growth, and accessing invaluable resources.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

During my tenure as a senior staffer of a United States Senator and CAO of a parish (county), I had the opportunity to establish relationships and deliver resources during some of our difficult times. One of the main factors for me was the willingness to serve my communities by serving on boards and committees. I could raise funds, advise agencies, and write successful grants at no cost, a testament to my ability to secure resources. Therefore, when I launched my business, several individuals witnessed my work and dedication to being that change agent.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ltright4ullc.com
• Instagram: @Toombs62
• Facebook: @lavernesaulny
• Linkedin: @lavernetoombs