We caught up with the inspiring and insightful Kelly Grady a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below. She’s a worldwide Diamond and Jewelry Broker, owner of Tender Loving Carats and started her company from scratch 25 years ago.
Kelly, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
The roots of my strong work ethic trace back to growing up in the Midwest. I started babysitting at the age of 11, then juggling multiple jobs throughout high school and college. After working for others, I knew I wanted to be my own boss and have my own business. If you want the life of your dreams, you need to follow your passion and create it.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, three pivotal qualities that played a crucial role in my success:
- Understanding and addressing clients’ needs, rather than focusing solely on sales helps build meaningful connections. Take the time to connect with people, identify their desires, and proactively work towards fulfilling them. This commitment to continuous improvement not only opens doors but also lays the foundation for lasting and meaningful relationships.
- An unwavering work ethic. On those days that you don’t feel like doing much, you still need to do it. Thislays the foundation for success. Commit to putting in the time and effort required to achieve your goals. Consistent hard work often leads to not just professional growth but also personal fulfillment. Work at work. Play at play.
- The ability to change with the times. Embrace change and be willing to pivot when necessary. The ability to adapt to evolving circumstances is key. I started my business selling sterling silver, but when the department stores started carrying it, the market disintegrated, so I pivoted to creating custom jewelry.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When the weight of responsibilities feels overwhelming, my approach involves a combination of calming practices and strategic actions. I prioritize self-care through meditation and focused breathing. Taking occasional vacations provides a rejuvenating break. I also make sure I hire people to do what they’re good at so I can do what I’m good at. When you focus on that, everyone wins.
I make sure I get the rough stuff done first, especially in areas where I may feel less proficient, is crucial for peace of mind. It’s about addressing potential stressors head-on and ensuring everything is in order.
Equally important is your support network – a community of fellow business owners and friends. I don’t hesitate to reach out for advice. This network serves as a valuable source of guidance and collective wisdom during challenging times.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tenderlovingcarats.com
- Instagram: @tenderlovingcarats
- Facebook: Tender Loving Carats
- Linkedin: Kelly (Klohs) Grady
