Striking Out On My Own for Parts Known and Unknown

I've been hinting on Twitter and Facebook that I'd be making a big announcement today. Well, here it is. 

I'm leaving Bizzuka, the company I served for over two and half years as Internet Marketing Director, to strike out on my own to pursue a speaking, writing and consulting career. This video explains things in greater detail.

I'm leaving the company on good terms. In fact, I'll be doing some part-time work with them for a period of time. My boss and Bizzuka CEO, John Munsell, was gracious to offer that to help me establish myself during this transition. In fact, here's what he had to say in a blog post regarding my departure.

I'm blessed to have had the opportunity to serve Bizzuka. It's a great, young, growing company, and the leadership at the helm is second to none. But, I had to follow my heart and this is where it was leading. Not only that, I wanted to have greater latitude in promoting The Digital Handshake than I was able to as a full-time employee.

I will be working with another company on a contract basis starting Monday (I'll give you more details then.). Between it and Bizzuka, I should just about have my financial base established...just about. 

I am looking for a handful of clients that I can do good work with, but don't want to spread myself too thin. I'd rather opt for quality than quantity. I would love to speak with you if you're interested in the types of services I have to offer. (You'll hear more about those on Monday as well)

One area where I have great passion is small business, specifically helping small businesses learn how to use the Internet and social media in particular to market themselves. No matter how the future develops, I will always make a place in my heart for them. 

I want to continue building the Social Media Handyman brand. That's a good fit for me and it lends itself well to the small business aspect of my business. 

I also want to advance my speaking career. That is truly my burning passion. I've been fortunate to have a number of opportunities come my way, but have to turn these into income generators. My goal is to get a minimum of two speaking engagements per month. Those include keynotes, solo presentations, panels and half-day or full-day workshops. 

Comments

[twitter.com/Tom_Collins]

Congratulations, Paul! As I think I heard in your voice, it's more fun out here!

[sara bonert]

All the best to your Paul as you strike out on your own! I look forward to seeing you on the speaker circuit even more! Good luck following your heart!

[Michele Miller]

A hearty congrats, Paul! I have no doubt that you'll enjoy big time success and no one deserves more than you!

[Lisa Heindel]

Congratulations, Paul, for having the opportunity to follow your heart (not everyone gets to do that!)and focus on your passion and what makes you happiest. I look forward to hearing the next announcement from you with more details.

[Teresa Boardman]

Very cool!

[Paul Chaney]

Thanks for the encouragement everyone. It's an exciting time and I'm looking forward to what is on the horizon.

[susie gardner]

congrats, paul! i hope all this leads to fame and fortune!

[ines]

CONGRATULTIONS!!!! I"m so excited for you!

[Des Walsh]

Congratulations Paul. Can't have been an easy decision, but from here it looks good. Your move is a gift to any small business that has started to get the point about social media and is ready to take action. As far as the speaking goes, some event organisers are surely going to be smart enough to get you on their list and recompense you handsomely, as you deserve!

[Ann Handley]

Thrilled for you, Paul! Sincere congrats to my favorite Handyman ever. You'll kick butt.

[Paul Chaney]

Thanks Susie, Des, Ines, and Ann. I appreciate the encouragement.

[Tom Royce]

Welcome to the club, Paul. The independent life has it's challenges, but the benefits outweigh them tenfold! We will be cheering for you here in Peachtree City, Ga.

[Paul Chaney]

Thanks Tom. I'm up for the challenge. It's the right direction to take to be sure.

[Beth Harte]

Congratulations Paul!! I know you will be very successful with this new adventure. Looking forward to hearing all about the new journey!

Beth Harte
Client Services Director
Serengeti Communications
@bethharte

[twitter.com/mmangen]

Congrats on striking out on your own! I ran across your blog from the weekly BizSugar email. Will be sure to visit back on Monday to see what type of clients you are seeking.

Good luck in your new venture!

[Paul Chaney]

Thanks! I'm going to post something this coming Monday (the 26th) outlining my specific interests so far as client acquisition, services, etc are concerned. I do appreciate your interest very much.

[Ruel Luna]

Its good to hear that there's such a people like you who's willing to help small businesses and able to contribute to our society. GOD bless you!

[Jasoncrouch]

Paul - I am catching up a bit on my Google Reader stuff tonight, and I came across this post. Of course, I knew about this move of yours a few weeks before you posted this. :) I hope to have some opportunities to collaborate with you, or perhaps to hire you for an event or multiple events in the future. Kudos to you for this big move, and I think it will pay off for you in a big way.

[Paul Chaney]

Thanks Jason. I hope you do too! That would be exciting. Please do keep me in mind.