"Being an entrepreneur requires a certain mindset" with Royce King

Royce King is the perfect example of what a thriving female founder looks like. As a 20 year veteran in the startup space, she has the grit, the experience, and the wisdom to help guide other female founders on their road to the top. After rebuilding herself and her brand, Royce was able to prove to herself and others that she could overcome any obstacle--going from destitute to global in under 2 years.

Today, her business spans internationally and she is acclaimed as an author, speaker, writer, and consultant. After the release of her book “Scale Up Your Profits: The Secrets of Online Marketing” Royce was endorsed by original “Shark Tank” member Kevin Harrington as being “passionate about working with entrepreneurs to create a compelling message and deliver content that converts.” She leads by example to show women that yes, you can do it all!

Can you tell our readers about your background?

I’ve been an entrepreneur my entire life, and to date have owned 12 businesses. Some have failed, some have succeeded. I’ve had the pleasure of working in a variety of industries which has been fascinating.

What inspired you to start your business?

As an entrepreneur, I began volunteering with MBA students, Startup Weekends, and business plan competitions. It excited me to be around this creative energy and encourage other entrepreneurial-minded people. I found my passion in 2012 when I began developing marketing strategies and writing content for friends as a hobby. By 2014, I made it my full-time business, and by 2016 it went global. While it’s taken some iterations and evolved as I’ve defined more about what I enjoy doing and who I enjoy serving, the foundation has been the same. 

Where is your business based?

I reside in Colorado; however, I run a global business.

How did you start your business? What were the first steps you took?

I was mentoring quite a few startups one year, and a friend who observed me told me I was effective. However, she asked why I didn’t start a business. In resisting what she said, I feel I found my calling and can use my skills today. Her prodding was a pivotal moment in me starting my business. 

First, I chose a business name and printed business cards. Like many people, I didn’t officially incorporate until I saw that it would work. I also found a mentor and began networking, telling people I was “open for business”. Finally, I continued to hone my skills. To this day, I choose an educational investment each year to make sure my skill set and my mindset don’t get stale. 

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness for your business?

I use a variety of ways to market my business. When I began, it was primarily through local networking. Today, it’s through referral partners, LinkedIn, podcast appearances, and my books. 

What have been your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?

Being an entrepreneur isn’t easy, and there were several days I woke up wondering, “is it worth it?” I’ve lost everything twice and had to start over; that takes resilience and self-confidence. Also, I had so many interests, and I tried being a jack of all trades and keeping my market broad. That hurt! I wasted time and money. I’ve said “yes” to projects I didn’t know how to complete. I’ve underpriced my services. I’ve doubted myself and my ability. But, you overcome challenges by getting up one more time than you get knocked down, and you take the experience and learn from it. 

How do you stay focused?

Practice and discipline. I’ve always been disciplined naturally; however, I have daily practices that help: starting each day with a mantra, looking at my goal, positive self-talk, reading, and prayer. 

How do you differentiate your business from the competition?

I’ve been fortunate to have a wide range of experience and education that gives me a wide lens to help my clients see their roadblocks. My business experience includes everything from luxury fashion to horses. The variety also keeps me creative when writing content. Additionally, I’m a self-made, 6-figure female founder who appreciates the journey. 

What has been your most effective marketing strategy to grow your business?

Although it’s changed through the years, I’ve established myself as an expert and regularly appear on podcasts and sell the six books I’ve published. 

What's your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?

Being an entrepreneur requires a certain mindset. You have to be disciplined and self-motivated, not leaning on others to give you a push or swaying with your emotions. But, staying firm in your resolve and doing what needs to be done. Also, you need to be OK with the unknown and a lack of security. There is no weekly paycheck, retirement plan, or PTO. You’ll often work weeks or months without pay. But, if you become successful, you’ll make more than you ever would at a job and you’ll have the freedom to determine when you take time off. 

What's your favorite app, blog, and book? Why?

My favorite apps are Audible to read my books and PayPal to get paid. I don’t have a favorite blog. As an avid reader it’s hard to pick a favorite book; but, my recent reads have included Winning by Tim Grover and Chase the Lion by Mark Batterson. There are some classic favorites too, such as Think and Grow Rich and Rich Dad, Poor Dad. 

What's your favorite business tool or resource? Why?

Writing content daily means I use Grammarly often. It helps edit and check my work. I enjoy LinkedIn as well because it connects me with virtual mentors and my ideal audience from the comfort of my home. 

Who is your business role model? Why?

Sara Blakely is one who has recently made headlines. Her success has broken the glass ceiling and show women they can have entrepreneurial success and a family. I’ve often heard mentors say you can have both, but we don’t always believe it. 

How do you balance work and life?

I schedule times of self-care in my calendar and I plan several mini-getaways every year. 

What’s your favorite way to decompress?

Massages and being on the beach are two of my favorite ways to relax. 

What do you have planned for the next six months?

To increase my business by 50%, appear on more podcasts, and spend more time at my beach home. 

How can our readers connect with you?

www.YourStartup.Coach has all of my social links and contact information.