Welcome to our WBE Spotlight Series! Today, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Marilyn Johnson, Principal Consultant of MHJohnson & Associates. Join us as we delve into Marilyn’s entrepreneurial journey and uncover the driving force behind her success in the management consulting industry.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I was inspired to start my own business because I wanted to have the flexibility and creative ability to assist small to mid-sized companies. Additionally, I desired to lead in a manner authentic to my core business beliefs: that success can be both enjoyable and enriching without conforming to rigid, cookie-cutter approaches.
What is a business milestone or achievement that you are most proud of?
I take great pride in the fact that over 1,000 women and minority owned businesses have been positively impacted by the programs I’ve developed for my clients. Furthermore, I am proud that these programs have garnered awards and are widely regarded as the gold standard in supplier development. They are frequently benchmarked against, solidifying their reputation for excellence.
What challenges have you faced as a woman business owner, and how did you overcome them?
As a woman business owner, I have encountered challenges, such as potential customers not always taking me seriously. However, I refuse to let this deter me. With a proven track record of successes and unwavering confidence in my abilities, I am adept at winning over most doubters.
What advice would you give to aspiring women entrepreneurs?
My advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs is simple yet powerful: never doubt yourself, and seek out a mentor. Confidence in your abilities is key to overcoming challenges and achieving success in the entrepreneurial world. Additionally, having a mentor can provide invaluable guidance, support, and wisdom as you navigate your journey as a business owner.
MHJohnson & Associates
MHJohnson & Associates, Inc. is a specialized consulting firm with over two decades of excellence in Supplier Development and Diversity programs. Since 2001, we’ve helped organizations build and optimize their supplier networks through award-winning program design, implementation, and evaluation. Our expertise extends to custom team building facilitation, delivering tailored solutions that drive measurable results. With 23 years of industry leadership, we transform supplier relationships into strategic advantages for our clients.
Never doubt yourself, and seek out a mentor. Confidence in your abilities is key to overcoming challenges and achieving success in the entrepreneurial world.