Standing out authentically while driving growth can be a daunting task, especially for professional women aiming to balance their personal values with career aspirations. Her Expat Life caught up with Paula Burns, a dynamic force dedicated to helping women shine in their professional endeavours. With a unique blend of heartfelt guidance and innovative growth strategies, Paula empowers women to embrace their true selves and achieve remarkable success in their businesses. Through her expertise, professional women are not just growing—they are thriving authentically and making a meaningful impact. Join us as we delve into Paula’s inspiring journey and discover how her creative strategies are transforming the landscape for women in business.
1: What inspired you to transition from a timid child with little confidence to a multi-award-winning special events planner and business mentor?
It was definitely a journey! Nothing happens overnight. We have to transition as we become aware of the restrictions that we are placing on ourselves. I think the first thing for me was seeing people who were not even as experienced as me or have the talents that I have, showing up and grasping opportunities. The trick was that they believed in themselves. Most of us have the experience to back up the belief in ourselves but choose to hide. I did this for the longest time before stepping into my strengths.
2: How do you help female entrepreneurs identify and embrace their authentic selves in their business ventures?
I always start by getting them to identify who they are. Believe it or not, even successful entrepreneurs are hindering their growth because they are following a trend or formula that has nothing to do with their true selves and what lights them up.
3: Can you tell us about a particularly memorable success story from one of your clients?
One of my previous clients started working with me because, although her business was doing well, she had found herself at a stagnant place. She was finding it difficult to communicate her message so that she attracted the right type of customers and her confidence was holding her back. She wanted to come across authentic but not harsh. Following our four 1 to 1 mentoring sessions, she began to open up to a new way of communicating, resulting in business growth, additional awards & new business offerings.
4: What are some common challenges your clients face when trying to be seen and heard in their industries, and how do you help them overcome these obstacles?
Consistency is a huge issue! It so easy to get caught up in the excitement of becoming more comfortable showing up authentically, but sticking to a daily pattern can often let them down. I have a number of mentoring packages that allow them to have a check in with me – the main one being my group programme Business Wallflower to Spotlight Sensation©. It’s a programme that walks them through the process of embracing visibility, while I support them every step of the way. My 1 to 1 packages are designed this way too.
5: How do you balance creativity and authenticity while ensuring your clients businesses stand out in a crowded market?
It really is amazing how easy it is to stand out when you are being authentic! It’s so important to me that my clients are comfortable with the creative ways that they can show up. It’s not about being crazy or over the top; it’s about identifying new ways of doing things. My natural creative skills makes it’s easy for me to help my clients develop the best ways for them to stand out in a crowd.
6: What advice would you give to female entrepreneurs who struggle with self-doubt and fear of stepping out of the shadows?
I hear you and I see you! I know exactly how you feel because I was once you. It’s not just about showing up consistently. It’s about understanding your message and finding your sweet spot that makes you feel excited to step out of the shadows, one tentative step at a time.
7: How has your MBA and extensive experience in event planning influenced your approach to business mentoring?
I obtained my MBA during the years that I worked for a corporate company and I specialised in marketing. When I decided to start my events business, it was because I wanted to live a life that allowed me to embrace more of who I am and the creativity inside me. Now, when I offer my mentoring I can draw on my experiences from corporate management, my Masters education, my presentation skills and of course, my natural creativity.
8: In what ways do you encourage your clients to use creativity as a tool for business growth and differentiation?
Thinking outside the box is a phrase that is used often, but the ability to do this is key. I help my clients to explore their industry in relation to what they offer and identify how they can show up and serve in a unique way.
9: What is the most rewarding aspect of mentoring female independent business owners?
The most rewarding aspect is actually watching my clients transform from a Business Wallflower to a Spotlight Sensation© 🙂 Seeing them take control of who they are.
10: How do you stay motivated and continue to grow both personally and professionally, while helping others do the same?
Understanding what makes you happy is key for motivation. I love being inspired so I seek out people who are achieving and also embrace the wonder of new experiences. I also explore new ways of doing things so I can pass on information to my clients. On the flip side, I find that moments of stillness can be the best times to be inspired.
Connect with Paula:
www.paulaburns.net
FB: https://www.facebook.com/thepaulaburns
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/irresistiblebusinessimpactwithpaulaburns
Instagram: https://instagram.com/paulaburnsmentoring
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulaburnseventsandmentoring/