From Doubt to Success: My Journey into Government Contracting
Venturing into a new field can be daunting, especially when it feels like you don’t belong or simply aren’t qualified. My journey into government contracting began with those lingering doubts—thoughts that this realm wasn’t within my reach. Despite these hesitations, connections with the right people opened doors I never thought possible.
The Initial Encounter: Networking Awareness
My awareness of government contracting surfaced during casual conversations with fellow entrepreneurs. I often heard statements like, “I have a contract with the state” or “I’m working with the Department of Education.” These snippets piqued my interest, yet they often felt unattainable. One memorable meeting was with a woman who specialized in teaching toilet training to children on the autism spectrum—a topic close to my heart because of my eldest son.
In that conversation, I learned about how she secured her government contract, which left me with numerous questions. However, the information felt overwhelming at the time; it was one of those cases where knowledge went in one ear and out the other. I didn’t see myself as qualified, particularly with my existing responsibilities as a daycare provider. The reality of pursuing government contracts felt distant from my day-to-day life.
Shifting Perspectives: The Influence of Mentorship
The turning point came when I reconnected with a friend, Sheena, who had successfully navigated the arena of construction and facility maintenance. Sheena’s achievements resonated with me, especially after she landed her first contract. It shifted my perspective on what "construction" meant. Prior to this, I never realized that the industry encompassed various aspects beyond brick and mortar. She highlighted that skills I already possessed, such as cleaning and maintenance, were essential components of the contracting world.
What truly motivated me was seeing accessible entry points within an industry I once thought was out of reach. Sheena inspired me to recognize that anyone could find a niche in construction without needing a background in building or significant technical skills.
Gaining Knowledge: Academic Conferences
The next step in my journey was attending meetings hosted by the Institute for Veteran Military Families (IVMF). These events became invaluable! They not only provided insights into entrepreneurship but also introduced me to a community of women, particularly Black women, thriving in construction. The support network was empowering; we exchanged experiences, resources, and practical advice.
Motivated, I dove into research. I recall being captivated by various presentations at the conferences. One striking piece of advice from a mentor was to have a deeper look into government contracts. This advice resonated with me and fueled my desire to learn more.
Serious Intent: Turning Knowledge into Action
In 2018, I began binging on educational content, particularly a YouTube channel by a knowledgeable figure in government contracting—Eric. For two years, I absorbed every morsel of information I could find. In 2019, I decided it was time to act on what I’d learned. I wasn’t just soaking in information; I was preparing myself for tangible steps forward.
By September 2019, I started my cleaning company, which I initially named Short Hills Luxury Cleaning. It felt like a natural fit, as I had experience in the daycare sector and was well-acquainted with cleaning and maintenance.
Establishing the Business
Launching my cleaning business involved more than just hanging a shingle. It required planning, networking, and assembling a team. I knew I wanted to deliver quality services, so I quickly built a group of reliable individuals, ensuring we could tackle larger jobs effectively. The logistics of running a small business were challenging, but having studied the necessary strategies throughout the previous years laid a solid foundation.
In October 2019, we began taking on rental turnovers. This aspect of the business was exciting; we prepared properties for new renters, which included a mix of cleaning and minor repairs. I even enlisted my husband to assist with painting and preparations, making it a family affair.
Overcoming Early Challenges: Resilience in the Face of Difficulty
As the holiday season approached in early 2020, business experiences fluctuated. The newness of the industry, combined with seasonal changes, caused a slight dip in activity. Yet, instead of retreating, I seized the downtime as an opportunity to further my education.
I attended conferences in February and March, connecting with educators and mentors in government contracting once again. These opportunities were not only enriching but vital for networking in the field. Understanding that these conferences could facilitate valuable connections was crucial to my strategic planning.
The cumulative experiences have been formative. They transformed my initial doubts into a committed pursuit of growth within the world of government contracting.
