First Steps Network (Atlanta) just won a Totally Awesome Award for Most Helpful Childcare Agency in Atlanta. We recently spoke to them about their experience as a business owner, the best advice they’ve ever received and more. Hear what they have to say below!
Red Tricycle: Your community recently voted you “Most Helpful Childcare Agency” – what do your customers value most about your business?
First Steps Network: ‘It’s ease of use, safety, flexibility and reliability.
RT: What do you want people to know about your business that they don’t already know?
FSN: First Steps was founded by – and is still solely owned and operated – by a local mom. She gets it!
RT: How did your business get started and what was the motivation?
FSN: Necessity. I was simply a young professional with a passion for children looking to sit and when I couldn’t I would refer families to friends. Then, the economy tanked and people were underemployed or unemployed and many stay-at-home moms headed back to work too.
RT: Tell us, what do you start your morning with: 1. coffee 2. tea 3. mimosa 4. water 5. all of the above.
FSN: 1. Two bouncing baby boys (2 and 3.5 years old) 2. Client communications if need be 3. Coffee (if I can get it made, and remember where I put it)
RT: What is the most awesome thing a customer has ever done for you?
FSN: When I became a mom myself I was gifted a Moms on Call in-home consult. Life changing! Laura and Jennifer are brilliant!
RT: What is your biggest pet peeve as a business owner?
FSN: When clients forget this business is operated by a human.
RT: How do you keep your stress levels down?
FSN: Me time. Might be time with friends, shopping, reading or exercising.
RT: What’s your secret superhero power as a business owner?
FSN: I truly believe I have a gift in connecting people to each other.
RT: Tell us, what is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received (as a parent or business owner)?
FSN: As a parent, give yourself more grace. As a business owner, no matter how successful you are, never forget how you started.
RT: How about the worst piece of advice you’ve ever received?
FSN: Be sure to create a business plan. No way! Don’t let antiquated business ideas delay starting up!
RT: Is there a special offer you’d like to include for Red Tricycle readers?
FSN: Please contact me.
Check out their website here.
Photo credit: First Steps Network
