Good tidings | A conversation with Lee Ann Szelog, a keynote speaker, trainer and author in Whitefield
Lee Ann Szelog
Founded: July 4, 2008
Employees: None
Startup costs: $25,000
Projected revenue, year one: $50,000
Projected revenue, year two: $75,000
Contact: 549-5151
PO Box 36, Whitefield 04353
www.leeannszelog.com
Tell me about what you do.
As a professional speaker, training consultant and author, I assist people with living life rather than reacting to it by providing inspirational and practical presentations to businesses and organizations. I specialize in leadership development, innovation, human relations, attitude and work-life balance. I help people develop skills that help them both personally and professionally. Ultimately, happier people with improved interpersonal skills make better employees, sons or daughters, spouses, coaches, etc. For companies — large and small — and during a time when personal service is mediocre at best, there are many opportunities to maximize profit and growth by maximizing the service that is delivered to customers. The new art of human relations is balancing technology with people, and high tech with high touch to enhance the lives of people all around us.
Why did you decide to launch your business?
I worked as an executive leader for 28 years, specializing in marketing and training. I discovered through this career that my passions are training and human development. I’ve found that maintaining a positive outlook and practicing exceptional human relations skills contributes significantly towards happiness. My desire is to inspire people to be true to themselves, enjoy life and not become a statistic.
How did you finance your company?
While living at Marshall Point Lighthouse, I learned the value of enjoying the simple pleasures of life, and living simply allowed me and my husband to save more money. We put our extra funds into an account we earmarked for future dreams. Having my own business was a dream, so when it was time to let go of the security blanket of a 28-year professional career, I financed it with our dream money.
How do you market your business?
My target audience includes businesses, organizations and individuals in Maine with whom I connect through referrals, networking, my website, word of mouth, chamber memberships and participation at various trade shows. As a professional speaker, word of mouth is the most important part of marketing. I think my programs are especially well received in Maine because they are Maine-created. Being educated in Maine, residing here for over 35 years and having a long career in Maine allows me to develop, facilitate and market programs with an understanding and appreciation for my audience.
What has been your biggest challenge so far, in your business?
During challenging economic times, the training budget is usually one of the first to be cut, so I’m finding many businesses don’t have the budget to invest in the development of their employees. Conferences have also been reduced, resulting in fewer keynote speaking opportunities. Although I completely understand and respect the importance of controlling costs, educating employees is an investment in the long-term viability of any business. At a time when we’re all expected to do more with less, businesses should provide tools and training to employees in order for them to maximize productivity, enhance service levels and create a culture of excellence that will impact the bottom line in a positive manner.
What are your goals for the future of your business?
My focus going forward will be keynote speaking. I would like to center these keynotes on the power of attitude and creativity; I see the positive effects that both have had on my life. In addition, my husband, Tom, who is an author and professional wildlife photographer, and I have a number of books under development including one that documents the wildlife and landscape of the proposed Maine Woods National Park, and a Maine-based inspirational book about the power of attitudes.
Interview by Susan Breyer
New Ventures profiles young businesses, 6-18 months old. Send your suggestions and contact information to editorial@mainebiz.biz.
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