Continuing my journey of “fans of Michelle” (besides my parents), I recall another significant person I met along the way, who believed when most were turning me down.
I can still see myself perusing the business newspaper (the Internet didn’t exist when I first started the business) and coming across the name of a new vice president of marketing for a major company in Columbus. I called about a dozen times before he returned my call. We had an initial call that felt good; however, nothing happened. I stayed in persistent contact, calling monthly with thoughts, ideas, or just to check in and see how we could help.
It’s funny how life happens, though, and how it just likes to see how far you are wiling to go. It was two days after the birth of our first daughter when he called again. I hid in our closet upstairs as our daughter was screaming. He asked if I could come for a meeting. I was afraid to tell him I just had a baby… what would he think? “This poor young girl, how could she possibly handle this initiative?” So my mom drove, our new daughter in tow, and I sat on a pillow (those of you who have had a baby know what I’m talking about!) with my hose and high heels on.
The meeting was great, and we won the business; it really proved to be the launching point for our company. We still have the account today and have worked with dozens of people who have left that company for other organizations. I believe there are points in all of our lives that we just need someone to give us an opportunity. I will never forget my friend taking a chance on me and just believing. I’ll try to pay it forward…
