Barri Carian's Page

What is your name?

Barri Carian

Are you currently heading a woman-owned business?

Yes

If you are in business, what is the name of your business?

Carian Consulting

Where did you get your idea for your business or the business you'd like to start?

I wanted to leverage my experience as a partner in three start-up companies and senior executive in two Fortune 1000 companies to create a business that did several things: 1) tap into my passion for everything entrepreneurial, 2) utilize my successes and experience for growing businesses, and 3) keep me off of airplanes!

Where is (will) your business located? (City and State)

Newport Coast, CA

If you already have a website, what is the address for your business?

http://www.carianconsulting.com

How long have you been in business? (Or when do you plan to open?)

I opened the doors to my consulting business in 1997. In 2005 I added to my business by affiliating with Vistage International, the largest CEO organization in the world, to launch and chair a group in OC. The group is comprised of business owners, company Presidents and CEOs who meet monthly to help each other grow their businesses.

How many employees do you have, if any?

0

What is your annual revenue?

$100K-$250K

Describe your product or service, or the product you plan to introduce to the market.

Services I offer through Carian Consulting are, 1) Business Assessment--determining what is getting in the way of growth and identifying opportunities missed, 2) Business Planning--developing the roadmap for the business, 3) Strategic & Tactical Planning--facilitating strategic planning sessions with management and/or ownership teams and boards, 4) Business Coaching--working with business owners to keep them on track and growing, 5) Business Partner Compatibility & Intervention--helping potential business partners choose wisely and working with those who are not getting along.

How did you (or plan to) fund your business startup?

Credit cards, personal savings

What was (is) the biggest hurdle in getting your business off the ground?

Not knowing anyone in OC because I had traveled on business for over 20 years. I had to develop a local network and create relationships quickly and effectively.

What would you advise other women interested in starting a similar business?

Join and get active in organizations whose members are your potential customers or they can introduce you to potential customers. Getting active is key. That way people can see you in action, develop confidence that you know your stuff and can be trusted to do what you say you are going to do.

What has been your biggest mistake?

Not focusing on a specialty or niche.

What has been your smartest move?

Joining the board of NAWBO-OC. I have received enormous support and referrals from this organization.

Are you willing to answer questions from other women business owners about your business?

Yes

What is your email address?

barri@carianconsulting.com