Maria Kelly is a Leadership Growth Strategist. She is an Irish-Swiss, living the dream in Barcelona with her husband and their adorable dog Cookie, who keeps them active. She tells us that, “Before moving to Barcelona during the pandemic, we lived in Geneva, New York and London. I speak fluent English and French, am learning Spanish and drive people crazy trying to place my accent!”
Tell us about your life before the venture/ leading up to your venture?
I worked for 22 years for Sotheby’s, one of the world’s top Art and Luxury Auction Houses. As an executive leader of the company, I got to travel the world, see incredible works of art and meet fascinating people.
Tell us something about your organization. What is it about and how is it helpful for people?
I founded my coaching, mentoring and consulting business Ask Maria Kelly during the pandemic to help leaders and mid-career professionals acquire the skills necessary to conquer challenges and reach new heights in their careers.
What has been the response of the consumers towards your venture?
Very positive. 100% of clients who signed up with me either extended their contract or rehired me later on.
How has your life changed because of your venture?
More flexibility. I’m able to live in Barcelona even though most of my clients are in the US, UK or Asia. I have the freedom to work from wherever I want, when I want and with whom I want. I’ve learned a ton of new skills, joined communities of like-minded entrepreneurs and stepped outside my comfort zone over and over. I’ve personally and professionally grown a lot these past two years.
What are you working on right now?
I’m constantly creating new resources for my clients which I upload on the dashboard they get when they join me. I am currently adding an entire section on public speaking which many of my clients have mentioned is a challenge for them.
I’m planning to create more educational videos this year and launch regular LinkedIn Lives.
Give a motivational message for the audience/women who are reading this.
Believe in yourself!
Much too often we don’t take that first step towards a better future because we let our doubts and fears keep us stuck in our comfort zone and we end up missing out on incredible opportunities.
Confidence is the difference between having a great idea and doing something about it!
Start before you’re ready to. Find that first step no matter how small it is, and take it!
Ask yourself: What’s the best that could happen?
