Meet Haley McNeal | Founder and CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Haley McNeal and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Haley, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
After years of working in Corporate America, a huge part of me felt under-appreciated for my unique talent in Human Resources and I felt as though I was not truly compensated for my hard work, loyalty and dedication. I think this story resonates with many in the workforce and especially for those considering entrepreneurship. Thrive Consulting Firm was founded in January of 2020, just before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to an increased workload in my corporate career, where 12-14 hour days became the norm for over a year. The question in my mind became, why am I working so hard for this company and not pouring this same energy and work ethic into the business I created? I established my firm to provide HR services for small to midsize businesses that oftentimes do not have the resources or budget to hire a Certified HR Professional, or team, with my knowledge, education and skills. Thrive Consulting Firm is a shared service for multiple clients, similar to a CPA or law firm, without the need to hire an employee internal to their organization. So, realizing that I personally would not be able to grow my business while also working relentlessly in corporate, I resigned my position and focused on my firm 100% in September 2021 – without a single client. Looking back, starting this journey was the BEST decision I could have made for myself and my family.

What should our readers know about your business?
Thrive Consulting Firm is a boutique Human Resources shared services organization that provides an array of HR services tailored to the unique needs of each organization. My passion and unique skill set is HR compliance and risk mitigation – guiding employers away from areas that could land them in a courtroom. Our clients trust and choose our firm for our honesty, knowledge and authenticity as HR professionals. Unlike many HR professionals and firms, I’m relatable and unapologetic about my assertiveness and showcasing our value. For example, one client recently said I “missed my calling as an attorney” and I “quote the law like it’s scripture”, which is a huge compliment. Knowing as much as possible about employment law and translating that for my clients in a meaningful way is where I truly set myself, and my firm, apart from the popular and commercialized HR gimmicks. Providing raw information and making it palatable is my superpower, even when it’s not ideal, my clients trust me to help them make the best informed decision for their organization.

It takes time to cultivate and build your business – everyone is not an overnight success and that should never be the expectation. In preparation for success it took years of work experience, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration, a Master of Science degree in Human Resource Management and an HR certification, SHRM-CP, with the Society for Human Resource Management. Starting a business means having dedication, working long hours, discipline and an unwavering belief in yourself as a professional. Branding, marketing and selling your business to obtain contracts and clients are probably the most difficult part of the entire process and it takes practice. Becoming self-sufficient financially  and leaving a guaranteed salary was scary because I have 2 children to care for, that depend on me, so failure was not an option – there was no backup plan. Although consistency is the key, there are days when you don’t have the strength or you’re not feeling up for the challenge, that’s ok, take the day off and start again the day after. Mental health days in the startup phases of a business are just as important as grinding it out for 16, or more, hours each day. I tell everyone to have grace with themselves and the process because it is grueling.

Now, my team operates with clients in Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Texas, Pennsylvania, New York, Minnesota, DC and Oregon. I’m blessed to employ a team of 6 and we look forward to continued growth.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I’m being completely honest, since the onset of the pandemic I haven’t been out in the city as much as I did previously. So much about the city, restaurants and things to do have changed! I rely on social media for places to check out when I have the time and have friends visiting. One of my favorite restaurants would have to be Rumi’s Kitchen, so that is a must for anyone visiting the city. And, I always enjoy a good bar and hookah lounge which I’ve enjoyed throughout the city as we link with friends. Recently I went to a Braves game, and although I’m not a sports fan, I had a great time and there is so much to see and do around the stadium. And, the Atlanta Beltline is my go to for random outings with my family and our 2 dogs! The artwork, people and entertainment along the trail makes for a good experience for locals and friends visiting from out of town.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Joe Robinson, formerly of Community Ambulance in Macon, GA, was my COO for many years in my corporate journey. He pushed me to become great, tackle new things and nurtured my growth as a professional. Joe took a chance on me, taught me about business, prepared me for greater opportunities and cheered me on when I founded Thrive Consulting Firm. If “choose people who will say your name in a room full of opportunities” was a person – it’s Joe Robinson. I’m forever thankful for his leadership, mentorship and friendship.

Website: www.mythriveconsulting.com

Instagram: @mythriveconsulting

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mythriveconsulting/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100072151745701

Image Credits
Professional Photos by Mike D. Shot Me