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National Black Business Month

By Yarden Carroll

August is National Black Business Month and was founded by historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E Jordan Sr in 2004; both men encountered many challenges in corporate America and primarily as black business owners/entrepreneurs. Challenges black business owners may experience are limited funding, diminished resources, lacking formal training, and oppression. The purpose of recognizing black businesses is to captivate and cultivate black wealth, success, and existence as normalcy. To do this, we must normalize the growth of black businesses by supporting existing black-owned businesses and mentoring others to create their avenues to success. 

Black businesses should primarily focus on rebuilding our communities, restoring faith in each other, and uprooting the history of black wealth. It is known and embedded in the systems, the laws, and the mindset of many of our people. Does this mean we don’t have a chance? Or do we all need a history lesson? As a race, black people, we have to know, feel, and decide whether pooling our resources and uplifting each other is the ultimate goal or if competing in the hunger games is the best way to survive. The latter should not be an option. Every day should be a call to action supporting black businesses, not just a designated month. Many statistics disproportionately impact black America, but we can start with the economic state of black America. To make a change, we must make a well-informed decision to

commit to the cause. 

Here are a few statistics to guide you to informed consent: 

8 out of 10 black businesses fail within the first 18 months 

As of 2020, black companies only make up 10 % of U.S businesses 

The black dollar circulates 6 hours within its community, compared to 28 days in the Asian community, 19 days in the Jewish community, and 17 days in the white community.

The pandemic has disproportionately caused a 40% decline in small black-owned businesses, and job losses were more significant amongst people of color. In context, those who already had limited access to resources such as wealth, transportation, and healthcare were the hardest hit.

What do these stats mean in summary to the increasingly growing wealth gap within Black America?

Short answer: It will continue to grow.

Long Answer: This is generational!!!!! We can build and establish our communities from within, but we still have to dismantle the very systems and laws keeping the wealth gap from closing. Reparations will not solve the problem but can help. Eradicating the disparities in healthcare, education, policy, criminal justice, and employment will start. These changes will take time, but in the meantime, we can make some shifts in our mindset, lifestyle, and within the communities if we want to see a change in the paradigm. We have to be the change we wish to see in others.

We can start by educating ourselves on financial literacy: It is essential to know the value of a dollar and its use as a renewable resource when re-invested back into the community.

Invest in building generational wealth:

 Life insurance protects your family and preserves wealth

transfer in the event of a loss.

Support black-owned businesses: 

The value of a dollar is as significant as the black vote. Supporting

black businesses is complicated but achievable. Buying black will circulate the black dollar in the

community longer. There are several apps available to help locate black-owned businesses in your area.

Invest some time and money back into your community. 

MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS TO SUPPORT BLACK BUSINESS!!!

While I do not believe these reasons are not exclusive to black entrepreneurs, I do experience a trend with minority business owners through my profession that corroborate these sentiments. 3E's intends to dig deeper into each viewpoint as some are certainty tied to discriminatory financing policies and practices in place that prevent adequate support and resources needed to sustain your business.Blogger / Writer Luke Lawal wrote a piece in 2019 shining a light on a long standing narrative that plagues black american kitchen tables and community oriented business spaces curated for black american cultured talks aka politickin' . Barber shops, hair salons, game nights & brunches and old fashion ladies nights' at some point are spent debating why black businesses fail and usually point to a lack of due diligence. Luke entitled his piece, 12 Reasons.... while some may disagree men lie, women lie numbers don't. I think its high time we wake up and smell the bologna so you can start smelling the wagyu. .Read 12 Reasons

 Nikki is no stranger to communications. She has an extended history of managing press for multi-billion dollar programs, writing copy for both non profit and corporate entities and small business clients. If anyone can understand the life of an entrepreneur she can. She's cultured, has diverse writing experience, a natural researcher and abreast with the latest trends in digital communications. This is an important in seeking someone to trust as a voice for your brand. Having someone with the ability to communicate to the masses in your voice as effective as possible allows you to do the work in bringing in more clients, more members or simply getting your message out there to the public. Let's learn more about Nikki and what she does.

When did you start NRJ Consulting?

I left my job as spokesperson for the NYS Comptroller’s office in 2016, and two weeks later, I landed in El Jadida, Morroco to consult for my first client. Since then, I’ve pivoted my business from strictly public relations to writing copy to help my clients make sales. 

What are the benefits to utilizing your copywriting  services? How important is it to a business to hire a sales copywriter? 

Great copy is critical when it comes to piquing curiosity, building connections, and growing sales. Most people make buying decisions based on emotions, so your copy must speak to their deepest desires, which is something I’ve learned to hone through ongoing education and execution. 

Who are your typical clients and what types of content have you created?

I get to work with outstanding women who are committed to empowering other women. My clients tend to fall into the coaching and consulting industries. I support them by writing sales pages, sales email sequences, and web copy. I write words that spark connections with readers and guide them to the next step toward making an investment.

What are 3 mistakes you see entrepreneurs make when it comes to writing copy?

1. Using copy that prioritizes the company and CEO instead of talking about what their service or product can do for the reader. 

2. Shying away from letting their personalities shine through in their copy. It’s 2021, we are all unique, and your personality is an asset, not a hindrance. 

3. Not investing in a skilled writer who spends their time (and money) building their skills to write persuasive copy that whispers in the ears of readers.

Can you write in someone else’s voice? What’s the technique for that?

Absolutely! I invite my clients to a deep dive session to get to know them and their ideal clients before I write the first word of their copy. I also watch any videos and read all materials they have about their business to learn their tempo, preferred words, and more. 

You’re so creative and artistic. Do you intend to take your writing in another direction and maybe write a book or a script? 

I’ve written poetry. I have a video on YouTube of me performing an original spoken word piece. I’ve also started a book that’s collecting dust (lol). I’ve promised myself that I will pick these things back up.

Now let’s get to know you a little bit. You are a straight shooter and seem to really enjoy what you do. What else do you like to do?

I LOVE what I do. I get to help bridge the connection between my client and their client. Writing has always been a creative outlet for me, whether it’s fictional, inspirational, or sales. I’m also a hand-drawn artist. One day, I’ll introduce my art to my creative writing. Stay tuned. 

When you hear the phrase “One Make It, We All Make It” what does that mean for you? 

This phrase makes me smile. It means forward movement for all of us. I have participated in events, taken on clients, made key connections, and more because someone saw fit to make themselves available to me. I see it as my responsibility to extend my hand to those around me as they make strides as well. 

The pandemic has taught many of us many things. Many people have taken a forced “ leap of faith,” but it has inspired them to meet the transition head-on. Others realized how stagnant and complacent they have become. After losing my father to Covid-19, the pandemic has taught me how precious life is and that you only live once, but my fear kept me from truly living. Self-discovery is a necessity, and we all will visit it sometime in our life. Many have become inspired to live their best life, and have set out to help others achieve their goals through coaching. The origin of life coaching starting in the 1980s by financial planner Thomas Leonard. His book “The Portable Coach” discusses strategies for success in personal and business growth. The first strategy he discusses is to “become incredibly selfish.” Selfishness has a negative connotation, but the emphasis is on getting to know yourself and your needs, which allows you to show up in a positive light in the world. One can begin this transformation with the help of a life coach. It is essential to know the current trends and how to choose the right coach.

Current Life Coach Trends

Virtual Coaching- The transition into virtual coaching was happening before the pandemic. We have the technology to thank for that. The thrust into the virtual world amid the pandemic has increased the need and access for virtual coaches. Many have experienced zoom fatigue, so coaches must find other ways to interact and engage with their clients. Virtual coaching gives us comfort, flexibility, and maybe taking the place of in-person coaching. Virtual coaching can add the same value and support as in-person teaching.

Core Value Matching- Many coaching businesses are offering surveys to first-time clients. These surveys help match coaches with their clients based on technique, core values, and morals. Surveys are pivotal in finding the best coach to meet your needs. It is imperative to personalize the experience to get the most from your coach and reach your goals.

Measurable goals- Measurable goals help identify your needs and progress. This trend has increased mainly due to the marketing aspect. We are no longer relying on paid testimonials. Social media and review websites have allowed people with personal experiences to voice their opinions. Coaches are now obligated to provide measurable results that are regularly updated and tailored to their needs.

Niche Coaching- Surveys also help identify the type of coach you need tailoring to your field of interest. As the industry grows and entrepreneurial areas expand, niche coaching will continue to grow. Life coaching niches range from business coaching, marketing, leadership, trauma, and wellness coaching, to name a few. Niche coaching helps you narrow the search in an overwhelming field. Finding a specialized coach in your area increases the likelihood they are authentic and comfortable in their field.

Qualifications-In an unregulated field, many coaches have capitalized on the ease of becoming a life coach. Therefore, it is vital to differentiate life coaches from mental health professionals. In addition, with no formal qualifications or requirements, many professionals are bringing up concerns about certifications and regulations. 

How to choose a life coach

Finding a life coach will require a bit of work and self-reflection. First, it is important to distinguish if you are looking for a life coach. Since coaching is often confused with other disciplines, you must assess your needs and what you are looking to gain from experience. For example, mental health providers and mentors are often the disciplines that people need. You must understand the differences and proceed according to your expectations and desired results. Qualifications are another critical component to finding the right life coach. It would be best if you asked about their qualifications and research whether they are accredited. 

Cost is also a good starting point. First, you want to make sure you can afford the services being offered. Inquiring about the methods and tools they use can also determine the cost. Researching the methodology is imperative. Next, you want to find a coach that will help you tap into your passions and purpose. Finally, discovering how to implement these findings will increase success. 

Many coaches offer free consultations. You can determine if they are the right fit for you. An ideal coach will be available to you, help you achieve measurable results, and hold you accountable. Choosing a life coach requires some effort on your part, but finding the right one, can help you on your journey to reaching immeasurable heights and unlocking your full potential.