Challenging situations arise, almost daily, both in the world around us and inside each and every person’s world. The trick is to overcome those challenges. Avril Henry bares her most challenging situations with Dale Beaumont in this interview. She understands what it is like to open a business with uncertainty, and then see it succeed. Avril is a testament to facing the mountain.
In 2006, Avril won the prestigious Lifetime Achievement in Human Resources Award at the Australian HR Awards. She has been a finalist in the Best HR Director and Sydney Business Review Businesswoman of the Year awards, and nominated for Telstra Business Woman of the Year on four occasions. She now works in Sydney and owns AH Revelations. Avril continues to help and inspire 100’s of business owners every year.
What challenges did you face when you went out on your own and started a business?
Self-belief and fear of failure! These were my two biggest challenges. I knew I had the experience, reputation, contacts and networks, but for the first few weeks I kept asking myself, ‘Have I done the right thing? Can I do this? Will it work? Can I earn a living by building a business that makes a difference and is respected?’ I received my first paid speaking engagement two weeks after I started the company and I am delighted that the business has grown by 50 to 60 per cent each year! While I say that I was afraid of failure, I have always believed that the worst thing that can happen when you try something new is that you fail.In the beginning, I think I was more concerned about whether failing would have an adverse impact on my professional reputation, which I am proud of.
Another challenge was building a business through referrals only – this was a conscious decision that I made. I started by working with people who knew my work, doing pro bono presentations and mentoring assignments. This was a good strategy as it gave people who did not know me the opportunity to see me in action as a presenter and facilitator. This ultimately led not only to new business and clients but, more importantly, repeat business.
For more of this interview and Business Start Up Challenges Check out Secrets of Inspiring Leaders Exposed!
