In your business, you manage a team of fractional c-suite executives. What called you to your line of work?

I'm guided by a genuine passion for creating value, tackling meaningful challenges, and nurturing the growth of businesses. There's something incredibly fulfilling about being part of a journey that goes beyond personal gain—a journey where I contribute to overcoming substantial hurdles and play a role in the success stories of the organizations I work with. It's more than just a career to me; it's a heartfelt commitment to making a positive impact, forging connections, and leaving a lasting mark on the businesses I am fortunate to engage with. 

You have the advantage of working with a diverse collection of businesses, seeing their successes and failures. With experience comes wisdom. Tell us what success means to you as a leader?

I've read somewhere that before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others. For me, success is intricately tied to realizing higher potential and experiencing personal growth. It's not just about my own achievements; I feel most accomplished when I witness others realizing their fullest potential too. This interconnected journey of self-improvement and the shared realization of potential forms the core of what success means to me. It is why I am in the business of serving other business founders on their journey to success and self-actualization.

What does the world need more of? Less of?

In a world often dominated by metrics and bottom lines, I am finding the true currency of leadership lies in something more profound—love. More love and less apathy. I have witnessed firsthand how people perform at their best when they know they're cared for and cared about. Leadership with love is transformative. It's about seeing the potential in others and nurturing it. It's about fostering an environment where every voice is heard, valued, and respected. Love in leadership is not a sign of weakness; it's a testament to strength. It's the foundation upon which trust is built, collaboration thrives, and individuals flourish. As leaders, we have a responsibility to prioritize love for our teams, love for our shared goals, and love for the collective journey. In doing so, we don't just lead; we can inspire, uplift, and create a company that transcends the ordinary, on a global level. There is so much room and space for love in leadership if leaders can understand the transformative power of leading with love.

Knowing what you know now, what would you have done differently when you were first starting out? And what did you ultimately do that you recommend to others?

Knowing what I know now, I would have surrounded myself with mentors, advisors, and a supportive network of peers much earlier on. I am so grateful for the sheer love and unwavering support and care I've received from people, some of which I have never actually met in person. Building a robust support system involves strategically cultivating a network of connections and relationships with the right individuals. I know now the value of seeking out mentors with relevant experience and expertise, as their guidance can be instrumental in your professional journey. Authenticity is key in establishing meaningful connections; being genuine in interactions and showing a sincere interest in others has returned 10X for me later in my career and entrepreneurial journey.

I utilized social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, to broaden my network beyond geographic constraints. I offered value to others in my network through resource-sharing, assistance, and sharing my expertise. I sought peer relationships for mutual support and camaraderie. I joined professional associations related to my field to access networking opportunities and stay updated on industry trends. I maintained regular communication to strengthen connections over time. I was selective and intentional about the relationships I invested the most time in, focusing on individuals who aligned with my values and goals. A well-nurtured and diverse network has served as an invaluable asset and is something I wish I started earlier than I did.

Has learning from a mistake ever led you to success?

Continuously, yes. I believe we truly learn more from our mistakes than we learn from our successes. Success, while rewarding, can often lull us into complacency. It whispers, "You've arrived," and we stop questioning, stop pushing boundaries. Yet, the beauty lies in what we do when we approach failure. Failure has played a crucial role in sharpening my resilience. It's taught me to bounce back from setbacks with newfound strength, reinforcing my ability to withstand challenges. The resilience cultivated through these experiences has proven to be an enduring asset, allowing me to navigate the inevitable ups and downs of life and work with greater fortitude.

In your opinion, what are the top three things someone should consider before starting a business?

There are so many considerations to make before launching a business! Numerous entrepreneurial founders experience frustration when they initially embark on this path seeking freedom, only to find themselves tethered and overwhelmed by the demands of actualizing growth for their business and freedom in their lives. My work involves unlocking the full potential of businesses to scale or optimizing them for a successful exit. Our fractional C-suite advisory firm specializes in propelling businesses, from early-stage startups to medium-sized enterprises, toward accelerated success. By simultaneously serving multiple organizations, we bring a wealth of diverse experience and tailored solutions to propel organizations forward faster than ever before.

The top things I think should be considered before starting a business:

1. Self Awareness - What is your WHY? What drives you? What legacy do you want to create? Assess your passion for the business idea and your commitment to seeing it through. Consider your personal values, work habits, and long-term goals. Starting and running a business requires significant time, effort, and perseverance. Passion fuels motivation, and commitment sustains momentum during challenging times. Understand whether you are genuinely enthusiastic about the purpose, the industry or field you're entering, and whether you have the resilience to navigate the inevitable hurdles that come with it.

2. Vision & Plan - You can’t expect to be successful in business unless you plan. Success is not a matter of chance; it's a product of thoughtful planning. Without a roadmap, your journey lacks direction. Craft a plan that not only anticipates challenges but also unveils opportunities. A well-executed plan ensures each step is purposeful and propels you towards your envisioned destination. Studies have proven that entrepreneurs with a business plan have lower failure rates. You must develop your vision and know your ‘why'. This will be your north star to guide you.

3. Skills Fit & Need - Identify the skills that are crucial for the success of your business and recognize where you may need additional support or expertise. Consider your ability to wear multiple hats, from marketing and sales to financial management and decision-making. Being aware of your strengths allows you to leverage them, while acknowledging weaknesses enables you to build a team or seek resources to fill those gaps. Validate your business idea by identifying a genuine demand for your product or service. Analyze competitors, industry trends, and potential challenges. A clear understanding of market need and fit ensures that your business is relevant, addresses a real need, and has a chance of sustainable growth and success.

Jill Simonds is a Fractional COO and the Founder of Savvy Strategic Partners, a c-suite collective that helps businesses spark innovation and elevate their business. Their fractional leadership services serve businesses globally.

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