Last week we kicked off our new blog series, Small Business Storytellers, with an
interview with our owner, Diane McIntosh.
We are keeping the female voice strong by continuing the series this week with Connie
Hanrahan, owner of
The Mantooth Company.
Connie launched The Mantooth Company 18 years ago. She currently oversees the day-to-day operations and is involved behind the scenes with each and every client. Connie continues to personally manage a few clients that have been with Mantooth for years. She enjoys working with multi-generational family owned businesses and is proud of how many of these businesses that Mantooth represents today.
Do you have a mantra you live by or do business by?
Positive squashes negative; relationships are an important part of each day; honesty is the only choice and that there is no room for disrespect at any time. And finally, if it's not fun, then why do it? Living and working by this mantra each day has attracted the most amazing clients and staff members to Mantooth.
Any specific moments or events that became a game changer for your business/career?
The day I realized it was just as important to interview a client while they were interviewing me and it's okay to walk away if it's not a good fit.
What is one thing most people don't know about you?
Thanks to Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google not sure there is a thing not known. I'm a Leo; okay golfer; love to garden; love to travel; I can read a James Patterson novel in one sitting; happily married to my best friend; avid CSU Ram fan. Oh yeah, and I'm much more an introvert than an extrovert.
Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders?
Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way and if many aren't coming your way - create them. Also, don't be afraid to surround yourself with an amazing staff that brings new talents to your company.
What is the greatest contributor to your success?
When I started Mantooth 18 years ago I actually told myself for years each morning that I just woke up unemployed. Nothing like that to motivate you to get out of the door and do something good. Good always comes back to you.
What is the toughest decision you've ever had to make?
I've thought about this question a lot and I don't think I've had to make the tough decision yet when it comes to my business. I'm hoping I never do.
What keeps you up at night?
The question for me is what gets you up so early and the answer to that is that it's another great day! I'm one of those that if I stop for a minute and sit down on the couch anytime around 8 p.m., I'm asleep by 8:15 p.m. - so.... I don't sit down much. Drives my husband crazy.
What skill or subject would you love to learn but just haven't.
Photography. I'm fortunate to have an amazing photographer at Mantooth but I'd love to know all the secrets to creating a really creative photo. My dog is featured in a lot of marketing material for Mantooth and every time I see one of those creative coffee table books or a calendar that features dogs, I think to myself...I so could've done that. NOT!