Episode 43 - Cheryl Ecton | Elite Building Services

In 1989, Cheryl Ecton started working as a receptionist for a group of building owners, and she quickly realized what tenants complained about most - the temperature and cleanliness of the building. Thirty three years later, Cheryl is the CEO/President of Elite Building Services, a commercial cleaning and building maintenance company which employs over 700 people in 19 states, servicing over 14 industries. In addition to her business, Cheryl is also a motivational speaker and author of “Choices Change Everything: Choose to Get Up When Life Knocks You Down.” In this episode, Brian and Cheryl discuss how she was able to build a unique space in a male-dominated industry, and how she went from a one-person company to where she is now. They also talk about Cheryl’s biggest lessons along the way. Listen to hear how Cheryl is increasing diversity and inclusion in the workspace. Key Takeaways: - Cheryl started her business in 1989 when she was working during the day as a receptionist and raising a young family - As an entrepreneur, you will face adversity, personal hardships and rough times all along the way. Determination and grit is what will get you through. - Cheryl has climbed a lattice, not a ladder, to success. - Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. - Don’t compare yourself to others; your timetable is your own. If you only have 10 minutes: 2:21 - After working all day as a receptionist, Cheryl would clean her office building each night, from 5pm - 11pm 7:25 - What was it like juggling a brand new business with being a wife and a mom (including to a newborn with health issues)? 10:30 - Could her company survive a divorce? 17:30 - How does it feel to be one of the largest women-owned industries in the Mid-Atlantic? 24:45 - The importance of increasing diversity and inclusion in the workplace 30:00 - What does the process look like of writing a book? 32:40 - The importance of authenticity and vulnerability 36:00 - What happens to the thoughts, emotions, and memories that are brought up when writing a book? And what regrets does Cheryl have about bringing them up? 37:45 - Cheryl’s best advice for a woman thinking of starting her own business HAPPY ½ HOUR DRINKS: Day Trader Lite IPA from Evolution Craft Brewing Company - Brian gave it a 4.5 out of 5: https://untappd.com/b/evolution-craft-brewing-company-day-trader/4085779 Read more about Cheryl: https://cherylecton.com/ Buy her book “Choices Change Everything: Choose to Get Up When Life Knocks You Down” https://www.amazon.com/Choices-Change-Everything-Choose-Knocks-ebook/dp/B09XKLXSH5 Learn more about Rivers Edge Advisors: riversedgeadvisors.com/ Connect with Brian Carney on Instagram @riversedgeadvisors_llc Connect with Brian on untappd.com - brcarney7 More episodes: happy-half-hour.com