I started a company this month. Well, it would be more accurate to say I started a PR agency. And I wasn't exactly alone. The decision to enter the world of startups was made with the knowledge that I had three fantastic partners taking the leap with me. It helps to have companionship when you choose the road less traveled.
We each brought different life experiences to the table. We've all taken on risk with the venture. I decided to leave a satisfying full-time job with a guaranteed paycheck and benefits.
Even now, after months of discussing business plans, capitalization, market opportunities and exit strategies, it is tough to think of myself as an entrepreneur. I've always associated that term with tech pioneers blazing new ground, or the passionate Web 2.0 gurus living among us in the Treasure Valley, trying to coax the market along the new media highway.
Starting a new venture during difficult economic times raises the stakes. To prosper, companies need the infusion of new and additional voices at the table to tackle issues in a way they haven't been addressed before. Tough times ultimately better the industry because they force companies to change.
To be honest, the current state of the economy didn't influence my decision to start a business. Yes, it does affect clients and their ability to engage our services. But I'm competitive and see this reality as a challenge to be more creative in positioning the expertise we have to offer and in developing the strategy for serving our clients.
Starting this business has elicited some unexpected reactions. I was surprised, for instance, at the role gender plays in the startup dynamic.
I was recently honored at a reception for Idaho businesswomen where the host remarked that every year it was difficult to get these honored women to share the news of their awards with their friends, families and colleagues. Oftentimes, he said, the women appeared to be too modest to share their honor and why they deserved it.
This observation came back to me when I made the decision to transition from "employed by" to "founder of" on my resume. When I started a conversation with a fellow female professional with, "I have some exciting new changes in my life " she responded in a way that gave me pause. Her first words were, "Are you pregnant?" When I answered "No" she then said, "Oh, you are getting married!" Again, I answered in the negative. When I told her that I was starting a new business, there was a lack of enthusiasm as she said, "Oh, that's interesting."
I've found there is a different type of affirmation for women when we make a life-altering decision, especially in the professional realm. Your choice and achievement may not excite all whom you encounter, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't share.
I realized, though, that I'm not starting this business to receive kudos. I'm doing it because it's what I want to do. It is the image of success I have for myself.
Part of that image is making sure it is not just about me. I believe that when shared, our experiences can inspire others. If the inevitable highs and lows of this first year produce not only a group of happy clients, but also one or two wanna-be entrepreneurs whom I've inspired, I'll consider my first year as a business owner to be a success.
Jessica Flynn is a partner/founder of Red Sky Public Relations. She can be reached at jessicaflynn@redskypr.com.
Starting Up is a series published on Thursdays. The columns grew from discussions between the Statesman and local tech and entrepreneurial leaders and are coordinated by Julie Howard, a specialist for the Idaho Office of Science and Technology. Reach her at julie.howard@commerce.idaho.gov.
