It is a surreal feeling knowing that it has been 20 years since I landed in San Luis Obispo and started Collaboration Business Consulting. After years of gaining experience and perspective working in key roles for other businesses, I knew I wanted to step out of working for companies and begin working with companies to use my knowledge as well as experience to help business owners flourish. When I decided to move back to California after a 15-year hiatus from the Golden State, I knew it was the right time to step into that vision.
I must admit that, at first, I was a little anxious about starting fresh in a new town where I didn’t know anyone but my realtor. I had yet to learn the ins and outs of the community, let alone navigate the business community. Like many of the owners we work with, growing this company did not come without challenges. From roller-coaster sales and constantly adjusting our service offerings to trying to build a solid team and reputation in a place I started with no connections, I learned firsthand many of the obstacles entrepreneurs face.
Now, after 20 years, I am incredibly proud of the organization built through the hard work of the many employees and interns that have been a part of the journey since it began. All of those team members have made me a better leader and individual through their involvement with Collaboration over the decades.
I am also humbled by the 600+ businesses and 4500+ business leaders that have entrusted us with the growth and development of their organizations and success as leaders. Through all of the challenges, heartbreaks, and achievements alike, I have experienced true joy in being a part of the vulnerable process of professional and personal growth for so many leaders.
"Through all of the challenges, heartbreaks, and achievements alike, I have experienced true joy in being a part of the vulnerable process of professional and personal growth for so many leaders."
I know the young interns on my team will probably roll their eyes when I say this, but 20 years truly go by so quickly. While I have many battle scars from these years, those moments have only made me, and the company, stronger. I will always be thankful for the privilege so many people have given us to walk alongside them as they pursue their vision for their businesses.
As our 20th anniversary approaches this September, we look forward to sharing highlights from the last two decades over the next 12 months to celebrate both our successes and the successes of our clients.