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

Hi Melody, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my Human Resources Consulting business was to solve a problem, fill a void, and bring value to small business owners.

I understood the pain points of just operating as a small business owner, especially when trying to manage a small workforce of people. While working at Delta Air Lines Global, an outsourcing division of Delta Air Lines. Inc., my role was to provide HR business partner services to other national airline clients. I thought to myself, “why not use this same outsourced HR support business model for local small business owners?”.

My first experience was working with a small business owner who owned a HR consulting company.

There is meaning and purpose in our journey, just as there was a purpose in watching my parents, who were small business owners, provide a life and legacy for me while I was growing up.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My company offers not only a specialized boutique of Human Resources services, but also immediate access to a network of CPA’s, Attorneys, Insurance Brokers, Certified Retirement Financial Planners, IT Consultants and Succession/Exit Strategy consultants, all who spent years in big corporate america and now specialize in small business needs. Together, we collaborate to curate a blend of HR Workforce and operational strategies aligning human capital investments with the goals of the owners and their company. This methodical approach is what we identify as the “MEC Strategy” (M. Evangeline Consulting Strategy). I am most proud of believing in the value of my HR experience and my network to take this journey. I was blessed to walk in a role that was designed especially for what I am doing now; providing HR services for small business owners.

I never take for granted the strong work ethic I grew up watching but also those I learned while working in corporate america. I also believe that it is okay to use your God given talents, education and experience to build our local small business community. I am Atlanta.

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.

Because my friend flew internationally, I would allow her time to rest up for the evening and get up early and enjoy a delicious breakfast at Le Petit Marche the next day. After that we decide to visit Centennial Park to take a ride on Skyview Atlanta.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
start of me building the HR acumen and service attitude critical to my confidence all while applying pressure with these strategic HR skills! Finally, shout out to SHRM Atlanta for all the networking opportunities.

Website: www.themecstrategy.com

Instagram: @mevangelineconsulting

Image Credits
Katelynehill Photography

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