From Adversity to Success: Tips for Women Entrepreneurs

In business, success stories are often born out of challenges, adversity, and a fierce determination to conquer obstacles. Ann Gilbert, the Owner/Strategic-Partner of PrideStaff’s Phoenix Metro East-Valley and Scottsdale locations, embodies the spirit of resilience and tenacity that propels entrepreneurs to thrive in the face of adversity. In a recent podcast interview, Ann Gilbert shared her remarkable journey from adversity to success, unveiling invaluable lessons for all aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women.

Are you looking to embrace change, seize opportunities, and turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality? Check out these eight key takeaways from Ann Gilbert’s inspiring journey in business ownership, all of which can be realized by joining the PrideStaff family through our franchise opportunity:

1. Embrace Change and Opportunity
Ann’s journey in the staffing industry began in 1998 when she started working as a recruiter in Minneapolis. Despite initial hesitations about transitioning to a sales role, Ann’s open-mindedness led her to discover that sales, when seen as a form of consulting, can be incredibly rewarding. The first lesson we can draw from her story is to embrace change and seize opportunities, even when they appear unfamiliar or challenging. This adaptability is key!  From personal success to choosing a franchise, it’s important to choose a franchise like PrideStaff that is adaptable, innovative, and continually looking for ways to add more value.

2. Persevere Through Adversity
One of the most significant challenges in Ann’s career came during the 2008 recession when she was faced with an economic loss of business as businesses all across the country struggled. Her unwavering determination and resilience shone through as she learned to navigate a changing landscape. Adversity, she learned, can lead to personal and professional growth. During these challenging times, the corporate team at PrideStaff stood by her side and continued to support her personal and business goals.

3. Diversify Your Business
Ann learned the importance of diversifying her client base during the recession. Overreliance on the home building industry had profound implications for her business when that sector faced difficulties. Diversification is a cornerstone of any resilient business model and is embedded within the PrideStaff franchise system, which allows you to safeguard your business against unforeseen challenges. PrideStaff offers support for franchisees to help with business strategy, financial projections, sales and recruitment support, and much more.

4. Continuous Learning and Skill Development
Throughout her journey, Ann emphasized the significance of ongoing learning and skill development. She invested time in training her team to build their skills and ensure they were well-equipped to handle any challenge. In times of uncertainty, having a skilled and adaptable team can make all the difference. With PrideStaff, franchisees have access to comprehensive training and resources to continuously improve and adapt their skills. From on-site visits from key leaders to weekly training and support calls, the corporate team at PrideStaff helps franchisees grow and scale every area of their business.

5. Forge Meaningful Relationships
Success is rooted in meaningful relationships—with clients, candidates, and colleagues. Ann stressed that networking and building strong, meaningful connections are essential for growth. With PrideStaff’s well-established reputation and support network, franchisees have the opportunity to join local chambers of commerce and networking groups, establishing a strong presence in the local community and nurturing essential business relationships. As one of the largest and highest-rated staffing companies in the United States, PrideStaff combines national support and stellar brand recognition to help franchisees launch and grow their businesses.

Interested in starting a franchise? Learn more »

6. Seek Mentorship and Accountability
Ann attributed much of her success to influential mentors who provided unwavering support and mentorship throughout her career. She also found value in joining a vision group of other staffing industry leaders who held her accountable and pushed her to achieve her goals. PrideStaff offers a vast support system to help others find mentorship and connect with peers who can provide guidance and support. From networking and learning from other franchisees in the system to mentorship with key leaders in the corporate office, franchisees have nearly unlimited access to the support they need!

7. Resilience and Perseverance
Ann’s enduring passion for the staffing industry reflects her belief in its profound impact on people’s lives. Her story stands as a testament to the power of resilience and perseverance. She encourages aspiring women entrepreneurs to embrace challenges, work tirelessly, and not be deterred by rejection or setbacks. The PrideStaff franchise opportunity provides a platform for individuals who share this spirit of determination.

8. Embrace the Power of “No”
Ann’s final words of wisdom resonate with anyone striving to build their own business: embrace the power of “no.” Rejections are part of the entrepreneurial journey. The key is to view them as stepping stones, leading you to the “yes” that could change your life and business. With the unwavering support of PrideStaff, you’ll learn to navigate rejections and turn them into opportunities for growth. As part of the staffing industry, we have the opportunity to help individuals excel in their careers and support their families – making the times when we hear “yes” even more meaningful and heartwarming.

Ready to Launch Your Own Staffing Business? PrideStaff is Here to Help!

Ann Gilbert’s journey from adversity to success is a compelling example of what can be achieved with determination, resilience, and surrounding yourself with the right support system. Her story offers valuable lessons for women interested in starting and launching their own businesses, and PrideStaff stands as the perfect platform to turn those aspirations into reality. By embracing change, diversifying, building meaningful relationships, and never giving up, aspiring entrepreneurs can navigate the challenges on their path to success.

Embrace the entrepreneurial spirit with PrideStaff, and let us help you turn your dreams into a thriving business reality. Join us on a remarkable journey, and together, we’ll build a brighter future.

Learn more about starting your journey today:
A Closer Look at PrideStaff
Why Consider Starting a Staffing Company?
PrideStaff’s Support Systems
Hear About Owning a Franchise First-Hand
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