Reinventing Your Career: Success Tips from Debra Cohen

Women switch careers or start businesses for any number of reasons. For Debra Cohen, president of Home Remedies of NY, becoming a mother marked the turning point that took her from employee to stay-at-home mom to entrepreneur. Here, she shares some of the secrets to her success.

Capitalize on what you love. “What’s most important is to choose something you love and that capitalizes on your strengths,” Cohen says. For this networking natural and HGTV addict, a business that connects homeowners with people who can help with their remodeling projects was the perfect fit. Make a list of your talents and pair them with your passion to create a career that suits your life.

Build a team of experts. “I know nothing about construction,” Cohen says. To compensate for her lack of knowledge, Cohen developed an informal board of directors comprised of individuals who had the skill and information she lacked. In her business’s case, that team included contractors, an insurance agent, painter and several others. “Networking is key because you can’t possibly be an expert in everything,” she says. “If you’re not good at something, hire someone to do it for you!”

Multiply your efforts. When the demand for Cohen’s services extended beyond what she was capable (or willing) to handle, she found a way to expand her business and her profits without leaving home. By creating a “business in a box,” she shares her expertise with other would-be entrepreneurs and is repeatedly compensated for her knowledge.

Be patient. Even if you’re passionate about your chosen path, success comes with patience and persistence. “Building a business takes time and effort. It’s not ‘overnight success’ for anyone.”

Learn more about how Debra Cohen turned a need for extra cash and a love for decorating into a thriving international business in “Building a Strong Future.”

Additional Reading

• Building a Strong Future
• Turning “What If?” into a Multimillion Dollar Business
• From Minimum Wage to Rooftop Gardens