I recently met Leanne, of Purple Frogs Virtual Assistants (great name), at a ‘Blogging for Business’ workshop I was running on behalf of Women Mean Biz. She was so open to helping the others in the group during that session, I could see she had a natural talent for supporting others. I’m proud to feature Leanne, and Purple Frogs, as my latest Passion Project.
A Passion Project Interview with Leanne Matthews of Purple Frogs
Helping Business Owners Lead Ahead
Why did you decide to do what you’re doing? Tell your ‘Origin Story’
I started my working life as an office junior in the main offices for a touring Theatre Production and over a 10 year period I worked as a receptionist, general administrator and PA, all roles that I enjoyed. I then decided on a career change and for 7 years did something completely different but a change in circumstances found me looking to change careers again and I remembered how much I enjoyed general admin. However, I didn’t really want to go back to a 9-5 position so after a conversation with a friend who asked if I’d considered becoming a Virtual Assistant, I joined Purple Frogs as general manager.
What would you do with your time if you didn’t have to work?
I’d like to travel more without the constant need to check my emails!!
What really makes you smile from the inside out?
My Jack Russell, Bella and being in Nashville, TN
What is your proudest achievement?
Learning to manage mental health struggles that I once thought I wouldn’t survive.
Where do you want to be in 5 years’ time?
As long as I’m enjoying myself I don’t really care where I am.
Who do you serve? Be specific, think of everyone you impact (not just customers)
Small business owners who can’t see the wood for the trees when it comes to their admin. By helping them we are also helping their customers as the business owner can really focus on doing what they love and offering great customer service.
How do you want the world to see your business?
Efficient, fresh and fun!
What one thing would you do to change the world?
Dolly Parton once said “If you see someone without a smile, give them yours” I try to be positive and open when interacting with other people as there is nothing worse than someone who brings other people down with constant negativity. It’s a small step to changing the world but brightening someone’s day can make all the difference I think.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
I’m very happy when I’m swimming so I’d love to be able to breathe underwater.
What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
You will survive this.
And finally, is there one thing you wish someone had told you before you went into business?
That one size doesn’t fit all and what works for one business (even if it’s similar to yours) won’t necessarily work for you. Find what works for you and run with it.
Helping business owners to get on with running their business instead of being bogged down with admin is such a useful service, having a VA is definately on my wishlist!
I think Leanne’s answer to the question, “Where do you want to be in 5 years’ time?” is the best yet… “As long as I’m enjoying myself I don’t really care where I am.”
We can all have lofty goals and dreams of financial independence and exotic holidays but none of it matters if you’re not enjoying yourself!
Thank you Leanne
To connect with Purple Frogs and learn more about there work, the website is: http://purplefrogs.co.uk/
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