We were lucky to catch up with Linda Yates recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Linda, thanks for joining us today. Getting that first client is always an exciting milestone. Can you talk to us about how you got your first customer who wasn’t a friend, family, or acquaintance?

In my church circle there was one particular women who would always comment on the clothes I wore. One day, she asked me if I would be willing to coach her on what she should wear. She is an attorney and was lacking the confidence in her wardrobe as she went to court. The engagement turned into more than just a closet clean out and wardrobe selection plan. She hired me to coach on her life goals and desired outcomes. I was thrilled to help this amazing woman on her journey. She was so pleased with the outcomes; she referred me to her colleague who then hired me to assist her with public speaking and her image as she ran for a judgeship position. When I earned that first check, I was on cloud nine! This was something I had wanted to do since I was thirteen year old. I could see how this helped those I served, and it wasn’t work for me. It was a part of the life mission I had dreamed of for years.

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

As a thirteen year-old, I had a teacher in my church that introduced me to an image company that focused on women’s image. It was a multi-level marketing company and I convinced my parents that I should get involved. I often refer to that experience as my first sale! When I was in training learning about the company, I was mesmerized on how the instructor made me feel! She guided me through the process of seeing my strengths and what was possible in my life. I knew then that was what my life’s work mission was all about. Helping others tap into their strengths and assisting them in feeling and finding more confidence in their work and life. 30 years later, The Image Energizer was born. Throughout my corporate career I was always the one selected to share the message of the organization I worked for. Whether that was speaking across the state regarding the only physical therapy program at the state university or representing a professional certification company, to developing an educational department regarding how to invest and guide a sale in distressed real estate. Attorneys, business owners, and emerging leaders began to hire me to assist them with their image goals. From public speaking to leadership skills, an individuals image is made up of more than just the clothes you put on your back. Through my research on image, I have found that just as our image projects out to the world, it is projecting inward. When you feel confident in whatever the task or role is then your ability to lead increases and those you lead see it and you feel the energy recycle back to you. Thus a never-ending cycle. The same is true when you feel a lack of confidence. It projects outward and that energy comes back to you reinforcing that lack of confidence. I LOVE helping others uncover their strengths, realize their possibilities, so that they can accomplish not just their goals, but their dreams.

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

Word of mouth from those that have hired me in the past or heard me speak at their venue. Because my work with my clients is so personal and individual, they are always the best source for new clients. As I have had the opportunity to speak to thousands across the nation, those in the crowd see my energy, passion and knowledge. That has opened many doors and led to client engagements.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I was running an education department when the company I was working for was about to be acquired. Management decided to cut my position and my department due to the fact the company acquiring already had an education department. I had just started working one-on-one with clients in my business in a very part-time way. The income from my job was two-thirds of our household income. We had a son out serving a mission for our church and another son who was trying to get back on his feet. It was a very tough time. The question of should I look for a new job or stay focused on building my own business was hard and scary to answer. But I’m still in business, and somehow we have made it financially. It’s been over ten years since that pivot came. I’m still learning how to build a business and not give up on the days that are hard. Keeping my “why” in focus is what energizes me to keep moving forward. It wouldn’t be possible without the amazing clients that have engaged me and family and friends that continue to believe in me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.LindaHYates.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lhyatescoach/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lindahyatesconsulting/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhyates/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/lhyates
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LindaYates

Image Credits
I have the rights – but the photographer is Candace Hires Photography