If I did not advocate for myself I would not have what I have. My family would would rather have me at home receiving a disability check and keeping my mother company. She is a very negative person who likes to create hostility around her. They are very psycholoically damaging. I grew up with low self esteem and only began to turn things around for myself when I studied Mental Health and Psychology and then distanced myself from my family. I have a sister who is deaf and physically beatrs herself as a way of expressing her anger and a sister who is jealous if someone does something for me. 3 months ago I fell walking into a restaurant and having x-rays taken I found I have a hairline fracture in my left ankle and since I had to get treatment for it, and lost time from work so the loss of income means I don't have the funds to pay my rent and my family refuses to help me. They would rather I go to agencies to get assistance. They like free money.
I am always looking to increase my network of friends. I am an advocate for disability issues by necessity. I've had to create my own opportunities because doors are not always open in the workplace.
Thanks for joining us! How did you hear about MyWomanOwnedBusiness.com?
No comments yet!
Profile Information
What is your name?
Dian Miller
Are you currently heading a woman-owned business?
Yes
If you are in business, what is the name of your business?
SendOutCards
Where did you get your idea for your business or the business you'd like to start?
I started a company - Techlab Photo Imaging which I managed for 18 years. I sold it in 2006 and became and became an independent consultant for Send Out Cards. I am also afflliated and a huge supporter of the Magnetic Sponsoring program.
Where is (will) your business located? (City and State)
Harrisburg PA
If you already have a website, what is the address for your business?
How long have you been in business? (Or when do you plan to open?)
Techlab Photo Imaging Inc. 1988-2006
Send Out Cards 2007
How many employees do you have, if any?
1-5
What is your annual revenue?
$50K-$100K
Describe your product or service, or the product you plan to introduce to the market.
SendOutCards a creative, professional way to communicate and follow up with your clients. It is like having your a print shop and a post office at your desk.
Send Out Cards is a taking the market by storm with an easy to use system that allows a company to keep in touch with their customers with automated cards and postcards. Imagine send 1 card, or 10 cards or 500 cards in about 15 minutes from your desktop. I have a blast showing business owners this system. It's easy, fast and a great way to stay connected with your clients! Showing appreciation wins over self promotion everytime!
How did you (or plan to) fund your business startup?
equity line of credit
What was (is) the biggest hurdle in getting your business off the ground?
The transistion from owning a retail store, where customers just walked in, to having to go out and FIND customers!
What would you advise other women interested in starting a similar business?
To get started - Hire a PR firm if you can afford it. Find your weak areas and try to improve on them, but don't let it overhwelm you. Progress that is slow and steady will get you there. Read motivational business books. My number one single piece of advice buy this book - The Ultimate Sales Machine by Chet Holmes.
What has been your biggest mistake?
Looking for immediate results.
What has been your smartest move?
Faking it till you make it attitude. It pays off.
Are you willing to answer questions from other women business owners about your business?
Comment Wall (7 comments)
You need to be a member of MyWomanOwnedBusiness.com to add comments!
Join this Ning Network
I enjoy reading about you and your business, Elevation Business Cards.
I look forward to speaking more soon!
Caroline