We were lucky to catch up with Dr. Burgundi Herring recently and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Burgundi , so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
In my current field of Healthcare Staffing, which is predominantly Caucasian male-dominated, I’ve learned to leverage my unique position as someone who stands out due to my skin color. This natural attention-grabbing quality gives me an advantage without needing to resort to gimmicks or elaborate strategies to gain notice. Instead, I focus on showcasing my expertise and knowledge base whenever I enter a room. Regardless of differences in appearance, expertise speaks volumes and commands respect.
Recognizing that people may not naturally approach me due to my difference in appearance, I take the initiative to start conversations. This proactive approach empowers me to lead and guide discussions based on topics I am knowledgeable about and interested in, further solidifying my presence and influence in the room.
While it’s essential to acknowledge and navigate the existing dynamics of any industry, being “different” allows for the creation of unique opportunities and avenues for success. By embracing and capitalizing on these differences, one can carve out their own path to success in any field.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
As a serial entrepreneur, my passion lies not in conventional hobbies like racing or painting, but in the pursuit of birthing new business ideas. I’ve successfully launched numerous ventures, from schools to consulting firms, each earning significant revenue ranging from six to eight figures. When asked about my hobbies, I often find myself explaining that my true joy comes from utilizing my 5-3-1 method to conceive and execute innovative business concepts. While others may find pleasure in leisure activities, I find fulfillment in crafting and implementing entrepreneurial visions. My approach is simple yet effective: the 5-3-1 method, a systematic framework I’ve developed and honed over years of experience.
I’m often quizzed on the secret to my entrepreneurial success, and my answer is always the same: it’s all about the 5-3-1 method. This method has not only driven my own ventures but has also guided friends and colleagues toward their own entrepreneurial triumphs. And now, I’m excited to share my methodology with the world through my latest project—a book/workbook that offers a hands-on approach to understanding and applying the 5-3-1 method. This isn’t a typical guide on entrepreneurship, as I firmly believe that the only way to truly become an entrepreneur is to dive headfirst into the world of business. Instead, this book/workbook serves as a practical tool to help aspiring entrepreneurs transform their ideas into viable ventures, assessing their alignment with personal goals, brands, and interests along the way.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs consistently revolves around three key principles: Consistency, Persistence, and Mentorship. These qualities were instrumental in propelling me from running a six-figure agency to an eight-figure one.
Consistency is paramount in achieving success, whether in business or personal endeavors. Just as you can’t expect to shed 10 pounds by eating one salad, reaching your goals requires ongoing, consistent effort. In business, this means steadfastly pursuing your objectives day in and day out.
Persistence is the ability to push through rejection and setbacks. It’s easy to get stuck in a moment of failure, but dwelling on it inhibits progress. I have a personal rule: dwell on rejection for no more than 60 seconds, then move forward. Persistence allows you to overcome obstacles and keep moving toward your goals, understanding that a “no” is merely a temporary setback, not a permanent roadblock.
Mentorship is often underestimated but incredibly valuable. Why reinvent the wheel when someone else has already paved the way? Chances are, your idea or concept has been explored before. By seeking guidance from those who have walked similar paths, you can leverage their experience to navigate challenges more effectively and accelerate your progress. Mentorship provides invaluable insights and shortcuts, allowing you to achieve your goals more efficiently.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
Instilling the value of self-sufficiency is akin to teaching someone to fish rather than merely providing them with fish. I’ve observed that today’s generation often focuses on giving their children everything they didn’t have, but in doing so, they inadvertently hinder their ability to tackle real-life challenges.
Reflecting on my upbringing, my parents were entrepreneurs who believed in hands-on learning. They would involve my siblings and me in business meetings with staff and clients, offering us invaluable firsthand experience in navigating professional environments. They didn’t shield us from business realities; instead, they exposed us to both the successes and the pitfalls, teaching us how to anticipate and strategize for what lay ahead. This approach instilled in us the ability to think critically and stay ahead of the curve—an invaluable skill set for success in any endeavor.
In essence, my parents’ approach embodied the true essence of teaching us to fish. Rather than doing everything for us, they empowered us with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate life’s challenges independently.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chadasconsulting.com
- Instagram: bk_the_ceo
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/burgundi-herring/
