Spotlight On: Kacy Paide

Name of Business: The Inspired Office
Type of Business: Office Organizing Consultant
Web Site: http://www.theinspiredoffice.com/
Email: kacy@theinspiredoffice.com

Tell us more about your business.

Imagine the messiest office you’ve ever seen. That’s my idea of a good time. My ideal clients are creative business owners who are desperate for a more beautiful, more functional, more inspiring office. I work side by side to sort, toss, and create wonderfully maintainable paper flow systems. Every client is different, so I never impose a cookie cutter system on offices. I ask questions to discover what makes them tick, resulting in creative systems for creative minds.

Why did you decide to start this type of business?

I had already been organizing for about 7 years when I decided to narrow my focus to offices only. To be honest, I was getting bored. I started to pay attention to which organizing jobs left me feeling energized, not exhausted, and excited to return. It’s extremely satisfying work to see how excited clients are when we implement even the simplest of systems, or fill just one trash bag.

Can you share with us the challenges that you have encountered related to starting a business?

I’ll admit, I felt desperate for clients for years. I’ve been organizing since 2001 and I only now feel like I have reliable flow of new clients.

How did you overcome these challenges?

I re-packaged and re-worded everything on my website to attract only ideal clients. I describe them to a 'T.' I clearly illustrate results and my strengths. I’m sought after because I have described who I want to work with on my site. By the time the phone rings, we both know we’re probably a good match.

What has been your biggest success thus far?

Winning Washington DC’s Daily Candy Sweetest Things 2008 contest for DC’s best advice.

What is your favorite free business resource?

At the time, I’d have to say Twitter. I see it as a virtual networking room that connects people who could never be in the same room. Exhibit A: I found this blog on Twitter!

Can you share with us something that very few people know as it relates to your business?

A philosophy that I’m trying to live by is “If it’s not a hell yes, it’s a hell no.” I’ve been applying this to various opportunities as the come my way. As my business name suggests, I want my business to be purely driven by inspired ideas, not “shoulds.”

What words of advice would you provide to others who are considering starting a business?

- Surround yourself with other successful business owners. Use them as your professional sounding board, not your family and friends (this can be tough).
- Don’t watch the news- your business is in your control.
- Niche, niche, niche!

Do you have any special offers for those reading this interview?

Anyone reading this can take 10% off any of my 3 organizing packages. I work in Metropolitan DC, but will travel!

Would you like to be considered for an upcoming "Spotlight On" post? If you have a web site and a business Up & Running story, please email Jennifer Moore at Jennifer@Pink-Heels.com. You can be located anywhere in the world as we are creating a global network of fabulous women!