“It’s important to create and nurture genuine working relationships backed up by a strong work ethic and consistent examples of dependability and reliability.”
The deets:
Name: Kenzel Fallen
Business Name: Tryg Advisors LLC
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Describe your business:
We offer risk management advisory and consulting services with a focus on project management and operational optimization.
Tell us about your self-employment journey.
Tryg Advisors LLC is actually the second company I’ve formed but my first solopreneur venture. Two years ago, my husband and I created and operated a craft coffee roasting business called Three Keys Coffee while working our full-time jobs.
Previously I was the SVP of Enterprise Risk Management for a large regional bank but was offered an opportunity to sever my employment due to a merger. The timing was perfect because it allowed me to create my own venture and enjoy the flexibility and freedom that comes with solopreneurship. I can design and implement solutions that have a meaningful impact on my clients while balancing the obligation of my personal life and other business more freely.
What area of your business are you most passionate about?
Helping clients find efficient and effective solutions for their needs.
What’s the most valuable thing you learned early in your career that has contributed to your success?
It’s important to create and nurture genuine working relationships backed up by a strong work ethic and consistent examples of dependability and reliability. My first two clients were former managers of mine. The strong performance I had shown on their teams in years past was memorable enough for them to contract out services with me directly two to six years later.
How are you pivoting your business during the COVID-19 pandemic?
I started my business a year after the pandemic began, but I’m using this time to explore more remote consulting relationships that may not have been feasible before the pandemic.
Businesses are now more open to remote work, realizing that the balance offered makes for happier and more productive employees. That has opened my business up beyond my home base of Houston.
What advice would you give other self-employed people?
Time management is key. Many of us have families and other personal or work obligations, so it’s essential to stay on top of time and utilize it appropriately. I keep a time tracker app on my phone to know how much time I’m devoting to clients and other areas.
How has forming an S Corp helped you level up your business?
Forming an S Corp and working with the team of advisors at Collective has mentally freed up so much time and energy that would have been bogged down with administrative burdens or countless hours spent stumbling toward answers using my own research. Now I can focus on delivering for my clients and balancing my work & personal interests.
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