Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Owens.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My story began in the shadow of timidity, deeply affected by the challenges of a stutter and shyness in my early years. Determined to change, I embraced public speaking and theater in high school, finding my voice through unexpected leads in plays. Post-college, amidst the tumult of the 2008 crash, I navigated various roles, from the entertainment industry in NYC to a pivotal moment as a waitress in New Jersey. This led me to a sales role, where I discovered the power of my natural communication skills. Facing instability in my career, I chose to take control and founded my own business as a Networking Concierge in Philadelphia, leveraging my experiences to support others in their professional journeys. Now, I use my voice not just for myself but to amplify others, embodying the role of an advocate, speaker, and networking expert.
My journey from a shy individual to a Networking Concierge has been transformative. I initially pushed myself out of my comfort zone in high school, which set the stage for my future endeavors. After navigating various roles post-college and facing career instability, I took control of my destiny by founding my own business. Now based in Dallas, Texas, I leverage my experiences to empower professionals, enhancing their networking skills and business connections, embodying the role of an advocate, speaker, and networking expert in the vibrant business landscape of Dallas.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey to becoming a Networking Concierge was filled with diverse challenges, both personal and professional. Overcoming a stutter and shyness in my early years was just the beginning. As I navigated my career post-college, I faced the tumultuous aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, which led me through various roles, including demanding positions in the entertainment industry in New York City. These experiences tested my limits and introduced me to the harsh realities of workplace dynamics, including confronting sexism, which further complicated my professional trajectory.
The transition from feeling undervalued in these environments to finding a meaningful path in business was fraught with uncertainty. Each role, from a waitress in New Jersey to various positions in customer service, account management, and business development, taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, self-worth, and the power of authentic communication. However, the persistent instability due to mergers, acquisitions, and layoffs made it clear that relying on others for my professional fate was untenable.
Driven by a desire for autonomy and a vision to empower others, I founded my own business in Dallas, Texas. This venture not only represents my commitment to leveraging my experiences for the benefit of others but also embodies my journey from facing personal and professional adversities to advocating for equity and respect in the workplace. Each struggle along the way has been instrumental in shaping my approach to business, networking, and advocacy, allowing me to create a unique space where professionals can find their voice and thrive.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a Networking Concierge, I specialize in personal and professional networking, helping individuals and businesses enhance their connections and opportunities. I’m known for my strategic partnership approach, attending events as an advocate for my clients, and my ability to navigate diverse environments effectively. What sets me apart is my personal journey from overcoming shyness to becoming a confident communicator and connector. I’m most proud of the impact I’ve made through speaking engagements, hosting digital TV talk shows, and my commitment to empowering others to find their voice in the business world.
Pricing:
- $297 – E-Learning Course
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ashleyassists.com
- Instagram: @ashleyassists
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashowens/
Image Credits
Vera Glass Imagery
