153: Weathering the Storms of Business with Kim Ottone-Tank

02/17/21 • 70 min

Kim Ottone-Tank, owner of Apronstrings Pet Sitting, has been providing pet care since 1990. After 30 years in business, Kim shares her experiences of weathering the ups and downs of the economy and how 2020 was totally different. Kim also gives her advice for hiring employees, and why switching from independent contractors is something she’s really passionate about. We also discuss working with family and being an early adopter of technology in pet care.

Topics on this episode:

Knowing when to hire
Why employee over IC?
Working with family
Weathering storms in the economy

Main takeaway: Business is a marathon that takes support and focus to run.

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Full show notes and transcript

Previous Episode

152: The "Hustle"

Summary: What does “hustling” mean to you? We break down several ways it applies to the pet care industry and the misconceptions around what is means to be full time vs part time in this profession. The past year saw many “full time” sitters and walkers go “part time” as demand dropped, but many picked up multiple new services and streams of incomes for their businesses. The industry, and our identities as pet care providers, has changed because of it. Also, Natasha O’Banion answers, “How do I enter a new market?”

Topics on this episode:

Hustling as in busy vs hard work
Full time vs part time
Hustling and pivoting
Changing our identities
Ask a Pet Biz Coach

Main take away? In this profession, we have the flexibility to make our businesses what we want them to be and to work for us.

Full show notes and transcript

Next Episode

154: Contracts

*This episode is brought to you by our awesome partners....YOU! Thank you to our wonderful Patreon Members. *

Summary:

Contracts are essential to setting boundaries and giving your clients peace of mind. We break down why you need a contract, where to get one, and then do a deep dive into the different elements of the contract we’re currently using. Remember, you should develop a contract to meet the specific needs of how you’ve structured your business. Then, Natasha O’Banion answers, “What’s an easy win for automating my business?”

Topics on this episode:

Why have a contract
Major Components
What’s in ours?
Reviewing with a client
Ask a Pet Biz Coach

Main take away? Having a contract protects you, the owner, and the pets. It also sets appropriate boundaries and doesn’t have to be all that complicated.

Full show notes and transcript