When Sonia Ferlauto’s old boss wouldn’t listen to her suggestions, Sonia took a leap of faith 24 years ago and started ACS Debt Collection, an award-winning all-female debt collection agency.
Sonia loves the freedom of running her own business on every level. It gives her limitless opportunities to be different and make a difference in people’s lives.
“I certainly didn’t wake up and want to be a debt collector. However personally helping people gives me such a buzz and seeing my team achieve their results inspires me to do more and seek more.”
What Sonia Wishes She Knew When She Started
- Ask for help. As a female, at times I found it challenging to be in such a male-dominated world. I really wish I had asked for more help in the past.
- Keep Evolving. Even after 24 years in business, I’m still evolving and changing aspects of my business to excel.
- Mindset. Working on yourself every single day is so crucial and worth it. Reading, attending seminars anything to make you feel great.
Sonia’s Three Tips for other Business Owners
Research, Research and yes MORE Research.
Plan, evaluate and ask yourself why/how is your business going to be different?
What is going to make you different to set yourself apart from your opposition?
Who is your market? Who is your ideal client?
Before starting a business ask yourself WHY do you want to start a business?
“There are so many aspects to think about. Ask a successful business person for advice and guidance.“
What skills and knowledge areas would you recommend those starting out in business get acquainted with quickly?
“People skills are important depending who your client is, some management skills would help and of course being savvy also helps in many ways.”
Sonia on being a HerBusiness Network Member:
Being a Member of HerBusiness Network has put me in touch with other business people who may have the same concerns as I do. There’s always help available and advice to seek. Friendships and some special connections are made which is very rewarding. There are so many different levels of help available. Learning is a big factor as well for me personally. My biggest problem solved is knowing that I am 100% supported, which means the world to me. Especially when I’m emotionally alone in my business.
