Meet Amber L. Drake – CEO & Canine Behaviorist of Canine Companions
Tell us about your business.
The mission for my business is to provide free or low-cost options for dog lovers to rehabilitate their dogs. My business is one of few in this field. What makes my company even more rare and appealing is 90% of the correspondence is completed virtually so I am able to work around clients’ busy schedules.
Please tell us what being a business owner means to you and why you became an entrepreneur in the first place?
Being a business owner was important to me because I want to make a difference. In the corporate world, since expertise and education in this field is rare, companies were charging unreasonable costs for my services resulting in only wealthy dog owners being able to afford them. As a business owner, I am able to extend a hand to everyone.
What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why?
The greatest influence in my business is my children. Owning a company is not easy, especially in the beginning. And, my children have been my motivation to continue pushing forward.
What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?
My greatest accomplishment to date is publishing my most recent book, Dog Talk. Dog Talk is priced as low as permitted for all to purchase. The book contains answers to nearly every question I have ever received as a Canine Behaviorist.
What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?
The best advice I have received in business is to gain a following via social media. Since implementing a social media marketing strategy, my company has grown tremendously.
What has been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your business?
I would have to go back to social media marketing. Social media has a significant influence in today’s society. People find out all kinds of information primarily via Facebook and Twitter. In a saturated online environment, social media is the best method for marketing.
What one thing have you learned as a small business owner that has served you well over the years?
I have learned to be continuously flexible in all aspects of business. Business changes as people change. And, being flexible is critical.
Are there any resources or tools you’d like to share with other small business owners that have helped you run your business?
Yes, blogging. Blogging helps promote your business while providing high-quality content. My preferred blog host is WordPress. But, of course you can find others like Blogger.
Do you have any new projects coming up (or have you just completed a big project ~ reached a milestone, etc.)? If so, please tell us about it.
Yes, I am opening an online school for those who are interested to enroll in canine behavior and nutrition courses. The courses are 100% online and self-paced.
What do you do for fun/relaxation?
I enjoy spending time hiking with my family. Being in the woods with my husband, our two boys, and our dog, is my escape.
What is Number One Business Goal you plan to accomplish over the next year?
The number one business goal I plan to accomplish over the next year is opening the online canine behavior and nutrition school. There aren’t many online courses available in the United States which pertain to the dog.
You want to write a book on …
I have written two books primarily focused on canine behavior. I would like to write another book about canine homeopathy.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Yes, when you feel like quitting, don’t. Keep pushing. You will have hard times, especially in the beginning of your business. But, keep going. And remember, you may fail. But, learn from the failure and try again.
What’s the best way for the readers of WE Magazine for Women to connect with you?
I post the majority of my content on my Facebook page at:
http://www.facebook.com/
http://www.dogbehaviorblog.org
