In our latest episode of “Fearless and Flawed: Women in Charge,” we had the privilege of diving into the inspiring journey of Serena Reynolds, the dynamic force behind Conceptiv. From her accidental entry into entrepreneurship to her strategic pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic, Serena’s story is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and fearless leadership.
The Accidental Entrepreneur
Serena Reynolds didn’t set out to become an entrepreneur. Her journey began in the bustling world of advertising, where she found herself traveling long hours on a junior salary. The tipping point came when she applied for a job at a small internet company near her home, marking the start of her adventure in the dot-com era. “It was an absolutely fabulous time for innovation,” Serena recalls. The chaos of the nascent internet industry presented endless opportunities for problem-solving and creativity.
Embracing Chaos and Innovation
The dot-com boom was a playground for Serena’s problem-solving skills. From pioneering dating sites to early sat-nav applications, every day brought new challenges and innovations. “For somebody like me, who loves a challenge and loves technology, it was the perfect space,” she shares. This period honed her ability to adapt and innovate, laying the foundation for her future endeavors.
The Redundancy that Sparked a New Beginning
Serena’s entrepreneurial journey truly began when she was made redundant from her job. Rather than seeing it as a setback, she viewed it as an opportunity. Her company offered her a contractor role, and she decided to take the leap into freelancing. “That was the start of my entrepreneurial journey,” she says. This pivot allowed her to choose her projects and clients, fostering a newfound sense of freedom and creativity.
Building Conceptiv During a Pandemic
COVID-19 was a game-changer for many businesses, and Conceptiv was no exception. While others panicked, Serena saw an opportunity. She decided to formalize her business under the name Conceptiv and started building a team. “I’m a just. I work virtually. I have done for 15 years,” she notes. This adaptability allowed her to thrive during a time of uncertainty, proving that with the right mindset, challenges can become opportunities.
Navigating Failure and Imposter Syndrome
Like any entrepreneur, Serena faced her share of failures and self-doubt. Trusting the wrong people and dealing with imposter syndrome were significant hurdles. “I suffer terribly from imposter syndrome,” she admits. However, these experiences taught her valuable lessons about setting boundaries and understanding her worth. “You need to learn where your boundaries are and what you really want out of any relationship,” she advises.
Authenticity and Building Trust
One of the key elements of Serena’s success is her authenticity. Her clients come through word-of-mouth referrals, a testament to her reputation for honesty and excellence. “People buy into me,” she says. This trust is built on her ability to listen, understand her clients’ problems, and provide tailored solutions. “If I don’t understand your business, then I can’t help you,” she emphasizes.
Balancing Authority and Authenticity
As Conceptiv grew, Serena had to balance her authentic approach with her role as a leader. This balance was crucial during the COVID-19 pivot when she hired a team and rebranded her business. “I’m fearless. I’m strong. I’m independent,” she asserts. This confidence, coupled with a strategic mindset, has positioned Conceptiv for continued success.
The Importance of Saying No
Serena learned that not all opportunities are worth pursuing. “All money is good money” was a mindset she had to unlearn. Now, she prioritizes working with clients who respect her expertise and align with her values. “You get the best out of me when you’re kind and genuine with me,” she explains. This selectiveness has enabled her to focus on meaningful projects and maintain her high standards.
Looking Ahead: Retirement and Legacy
While Serena’s journey is far from over, she has long-term goals in sight. “I want to build processes that will help. I love helping people,” she says. Her vision includes growing Conceptiv into a legacy business that she can eventually sell. This focus on the future ensures that every step she takes today is building towards a sustainable and impactful tomorrow.
A Question for Future Leaders
To conclude the episode, Serena posed a thought-provoking question for future guests: “Where do you want to be in ten years’ time?” This question encapsulates her belief in the importance of long-term vision and planning. It’s a reminder that entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint, and success requires both courage and strategic foresight.
Serena Reynolds’ story is a powerful example of how authenticity, resilience, and a fearless approach can turn challenges into opportunities. As she continues to lead Conceptiv with passion and purpose, her journey serves as an inspiration for all women in charge.