Meet AnJanee Polk | CEO of Elite Taxes and Business Services, Inc.

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

Hi AnJanee, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
Good day, my name is AnJanee’ Polk; CEO of Elite Taxes and Business Services, Inc. I am a true Cali girl, originally from Pasadena, California. I was raised by my resilient mother and guided by my fearless father. In my childhood home, I was the oldest of 3 siblings but would be remiss if I didn’t mention also having an older brother and another younger sister. My humble background instilled in me a sense of determination, independence and resourcefulness. My values and work ethic empowered me to find creative solutions and seize opportunities to grow both professionally and personally. These attributes propelled me into completing my Bachelor’s Degree at Spelman College and Master’s Degree at Grand Canyon University and ultimately influenced my career path into Entrepreneurship.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Elite Taxes and Business Services, Inc. was born out of necessity. After starting a family and marrying my college sweetheart I worked in the field of Education and unfortunately I was not being paid enough to sustain my family. I began taking courses with my Enrolled Agent and over 12 years ago started my own Tax and Business Service Firm. Over time, my intended goal has been helping to cultivate new entrepreneurs and educating my clients about the tax code in digestible doses and its benefits. Ultimately, I push for generational wealth for Black and Brown families alike.

The majority of the clients I accept are on a referral basis. My network has continued to keep me busy throughout the years by sharing the success of my brand with their counterparts. Likewise, I could do nothing I do in business without the love and support of my village. My friends and family really step in making sure I make meetings and deadlines as they arise. When the busy season comes around, they are always there to pick up when I fall short. Although I am still learning when to ask for help, when it comes to my village I don’t have to.

Mindset is everything. My mother often reminds me that I am a smart woman with a compassionate heart. My father always told me “Never say you can’t, always say you can”. My husband tells me I am amazing everyday and that even in the midst of the storms, we are going to be ok. My kids love and support me unconditionally, telling me phrases like “I ate and left no crumbs”. I have to constantly remind myself that Mindset is Everything and that Words are Powerful. At times it may be difficult but I try to maintain a privileged perspective on life and I could not overcome any challenges without the Grace of God.

As for work life balance, Y’all let me know when you figure it out. When you own your own business, you are HR, payroll, benefits, scheduling, marketing and the receptionist. There is no set time to start nor end unless you set limits for yourself. Anyone who knows me knows that I love my family and I also love being an entrepreneur, however balancing the two has not been easy.

Professionally, I would love to continue advisory/tax planning, implementation and business services for my clients and our growing network. As a small business owner, like many others, I have had the opportunity to branch out into different industries. I am the proprietor of a family-owned clothing line called “Privilege Perspective”, sell my Manifestation Journals Amazon and have aspirations to create a tiny cabin community on the family farm.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love any time out in Atlanta that has a chill vibe and is not extra. Places I would for sure take my bestie would be Winddown Wednesdays at J.R. Crickets in Smyrna-bring a lawn chair or if its homecoming season hit up Spelman-Morehouse Tailgate. For a Night Life Experience I would head to Canton to Bar 44, the owner Gary is always there and will take care of you; Tell him the Polk’s sent you. For a more chill vibe, head to Draw Bar and LOA at the Interlock or my favorite Barcelona Wine Bar and make sure you get the Patatas Bravas…big back I know. There are so many places to visit in Atlanta and so many good people to chill with. You will enjoy yourself pull out your gps so you don’t get lost. Thank you Atlanta for accepting me. Thank you Shoutout Atlanta for recognizing us.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to recognized those who have helped shape me into the woman I am today. Special thank you to my parents Angela and Dennis, my loving husband Jahi Polk who shows perseverance every day, my three beautiful children Jahi II, Avery and Arya-Austin. My sisters and friends who became my sisters, family on ALL sides, Spelman Sisters, AUC Family and my Sorors of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Photo Credit: @tribe_of_creators
Makeup Credit: @themakeupdivads

Website: https://www.myelitetaxesonline.com

Instagram: @mrs_elite_

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anjanee-polk-6508bba9/

Other: https://elitetaxes.taxdome.com/app/signup

Image Credits
David Hill
Deeonna Sharnay
Sleek and Company Studio
Tayler James & Tonisha Robinson