Taking the Leap: Michelle Scott’s Path from Corporate America to Entrepreneur

Join us as we welcome Michelle Scott, a seasoned CRM consultant with over two decades of experience. Michelle's journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of community support, all while setting strong work boundaries and prioritizing mental health.

Michelle Scott's career took an unconventional turn when she transitioned from corporate America to become a CRM consultant in 1999. What's even more remarkable is that she was recruited by her vendor, a bold move that speaks to her exceptional skills and the business she was driving away from the vendor's perspective.

In this episode, Michelle candidly shares her experiences, including her initial doubts about her qualifications for CRM consulting, her eventual confidence gained through years of work, and the abrupt job losses that forced her to forge her own path. Her story is a testament to overcoming adversity and embracing opportunities.

Mark and Michelle engage in a candid conversation about the realities of working alone, emphasizing the need for a robust emotional support system. They discuss the crucial importance of addressing mental health issues and unresolved personal challenges because, as a solo entrepreneur, your well-being directly impacts your work. Unresolved issues can manifest in your business operations because, as the face of your company, you can't hide from them.

Additionally, Michelle shares an essential aspect of her journey, a significant pivot in her business model. She details how she had to adapt when the technical support side of the CRM software she was supporting began to decline in market share. This pivot demonstrates her adaptability and resilience in the ever-changing business landscape.

Discover how Michelle built a strong support system within her family and community, how a colleague's rejection of her job application encouraged her to go solo, the strategies she employed to set effective work boundaries, and the challenges she overcame while pivoting her business model.

Producer Cynthia Zimmerman joins the conversation as they explore unique workplace issues that women often encounter, shedding light on a perspective that differs from Mark's firsthand experiences. Michelle's inspiring journey serves as a beacon of hope for those who are considering taking the plunge into entrepreneurship or making a career change.

In a world where asking for help is increasingly accepted and encouraged, Mark, Michelle, and Cynthia emphasize the importance of seeking support, establishing boundaries, nurturing mental health, and adapting to change to maintain professional and personal well-being. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable advice, motivation, and a fresh perspective on navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the business world while ensuring a healthy work-life balance. The shame factor associated with seeking help has significantly evolved from the past, making it a resounding "yes" to seek assistance when needed