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

Hi Nicole, is there something you believe many others might not?
There is this narrative about going all-in by quitting your job. But I wish people would stop pushing the ‘all-or-nothing’ strategy. If you’re fortunate enough to have the funds to do that then more power to you. However, most people can’t sustain themselves and their families while building a business without a job. I believe in being smart and strategic. Go ahead and start your business and keep your day job as a way to help you take strategic actions rather than operating in survival mode. Use the income from the job to fund your venture while being able to validate whether you can repeatedly generate value for others. Once your business is consistently matching your job’s income ensuring you can meet your financial obligations, then sure — go ahead and turn in your resignation. You notice I didn’t say ‘quit’. That’s because you never want to burn bridges on your way out. Also, do note that some jobs do have conflict of interest rules unless you’re in a completely different type of business.

What should our readers know about your business?
As a communications and brand strategist, I help career professionals and entrepreneurs clarify their message, develop credible brands, and create a plan to achieve your goals. My journey started with my knack for fashion, a need to solve problems, and the ability to build authentic relationships which led me to work as an Image Consultant/Wardrobe Stylist. As my client roster quickly grew, clients soon began to call upon me to manage their personal projects, polish their words, and equip them with strategies. Enters Nicole Williams Collective, born out of my client’s evolving need for holistic personal and professional growth.

Entrepreneurship is like raising a family. When you’re just starting out it’s exciting. The challenge then becomes when you start to grow and you realize there is no turning back. Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart. But it is richly rewarding.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The truth is it’s approaching two years since I relocated from New York City to Georgia. When I first got here I didn’t drive. Thank goodness for Uber! Then COVID-19 hit. Now a girl’s got her license. So I guess we’d be exploring it all together.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
It goes without saying that I’m a sum total of lots of prayer and the support of family and a few friends. So shoutout to my kids (Natasha and Serena) for not holding me to the idea of being a perfect parent. To Rodney, for being my supporter-in-chief and loving me through my mess. To Steve Martin, my mentor I met through SCORE years ago who still to this day allows me to bounce ideas off of him, as well as covers my blind spots. Plus, a big shout out to the TSP family!

Website: https://nicolewilliamspr.com/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/nicolewilliamspr

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/nicolewpr

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nicolewilliamspr

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