Meet The Corporate Entrepreneur, Leslie Mitchell
Tell us how you got into entrepreneurship.
I was that kid who did everything my parents told me to do to succeed in their eyes. You know… go to school, get good grades, go to college and get that "good" corporate job. So, I did just that. In 1995, I graduated with a dual master's degree and found it hard to land a job because I was overqualified. Go figure! I had to remove my college degree from the application to get my foot in the door as a Customer Service Representative with a major corporation.
I worked in Corporate America for about 18 years and climbed that so-called "corporate ladder." Unbeknownst to me, this was the beginning of wanting to be my own boss. I always knew and felt that there was more to life for me than working a 9 to 5, but at the time, I didn't really know what it was. It lit a fire deep down in me; however, it remained dim for quite some time.
In 2013, my outlook on working for someone changed. I was out on medical leave recuperating from major surgery and was advised that my position was being displaced. You see, this was not the first time I had been displaced from a company. No, it was more like my fourth time. Yes! My fourth time! I would always get my job back, but there was something different about this one. Something in me told me, Ok, Leslie, it's time to make a life adjustment and start your own thing. At that moment, I prayed to God and said I never want to be in a position where I allow someone else to dictate my income. I could feel the flame that had been dim all those years begin to burn with such force. It was time for me to pursue my dream of being an entrepreneur. So, I took my skill set as an Instructional Designer, turned it into a business, and just like that, my training and development consulting company MindWork Solutions, LLC was born. I went from employee to entrepreneur and was blessed to consult with Verizon Wireless, GE, FP&L, Prudential and Owens Corning, just to name a few.I was that kid who did everything my parents told me to do to succeed in their eyes. You know… go to school, get good grades, go to college and get that "good" corporate job. So, I did just that. In 1995, I graduated with a dual master's degree and found it hard to land a job because I was overqualified. Go figure! I had to remove my college degrees from the application to get my foot in the door as a Customer Service Representative with a major corporation. I worked in Corporate America for about 18 years and climbed that so-called "corporate ladder." Unbeknownst to me, this was the beginning of wanting to be my own boss. I always knew and felt that there was more to life for me than working a 9 to 5, but at the time, I didn't really know what it was. It lit a fire deep down in me; however, it remained dim for quite some time. In 2013, my outlook on working for someone changed. I was out on medical leave recuperating from major surgery and was advised that my position was being displaced. You see, this was not the first time I had been displaced from a company. No, it was more like my fourth time. Yes! My fourth time! I would always get my job back, but there was something different about this one. Something in me told me, Ok, Leslie, it's time to make a life adjustment and start your own thing. At that moment, I prayed to God and said I never want to be in a position where I allow someone else to dictate my income. I could feel the flame that had been dim all those years begin to burn with such force. It was time for me to pursue my dream of being an entrepreneur. So, I took my skill set as an Instructional Designer, turned it into a business, and just like that, my training and development consulting company MindWork Solutions, LLC was born. I went from employee to entrepreneur and was blessed to consult with Verizon Wireless, GE, FP&L, Prudential and Owens Corning, just to name a few.
What’s one of the greatest accomplishments you have achieved in your business and what was key to seeing this success?
One of the greatest accomplishments I have achieved in my business was landing a six figure contract within the first 30 days of launching my business. The key to seeing this success was my preparation. Here's what I mean. When I made the decision to start my business I took immediate action. I went on Sunbiz and got my business name, went to the bank and established my business accounts, secured business insurance, purchased my domain name, and built my portfolio all while I was still out on medical leave. The day I was released from my corporate job, I was in negotiation with my first corporate client. In order to secure the contract I just needed to answer a few questions. They asked me do I have a business name, do I have a business account, do I have liability insurance and can I send them samples of my work. I was able to answer YES to every single question. And I got the contract. I always tell people to go from employee to entrepreneurship you need to be prepared so when the opportunity or door opens you are not trying to get ready to do business you are READY!
Where do you see yourself in the next 3-5 years?
In the next to 3-5 years I see myself advancing and financing the Kingdom of God. I will be on global platform teaching women across the globe on how they can “Have It All” and how to Balance It All. My talk show “You Can Have It All” with Leslie T Mitchell, seen in over 150 countries with over 500,000 viewers tuning in weekly is known for discussing topics that impact, inspire and ignite individuals to reach their fullest potential by seeing themselves as God sees them.
What do you love most about being a CEO Chick?
I love to see how women come together to collaborate, support, and share their knowledge to elevate, empower and equip each other to be the best version of themselves, dominate in their industry, and next level their finances.
Who inspires you?
My mom and my 2 children the most!
What is your favorite book/podcast you recommend to our CEO Chicks?
"The Balancing Act: Finding Your Footing on the Balance Beam of Life"
What advice would you give other aspiring entrepreneurs?
Purpose doesn't need permission!
How can people connect with you and your products/services?
They can visit my website or reach out to me on social media!
How can people connect with you and your products/services?