By Brittany Dolin
Entrepreneurship is a journey marked by both exhilarating joys and formidable struggles. The joy lies in the freedom to turn innovative visions into reality, experiencing the thrill of creating something from the ground up.
Witnessing the growth of a business, seeing it flourish and making a positive impact on the lives of clients and employees are immensely gratifying moments. The sense of autonomy and the ability to shape one’s destiny contribute to a profound satisfaction. However, entrepreneurship is not without its struggles. The path is riddled with uncertainties, financial challenges and the constant need to adapt to a dynamic business landscape. Balancing the demands of work and personal life becomes a delicate dance, and the weight of responsibility can be overwhelming. Yet, it is within these struggles that entrepreneurs often discover their resilience, learning valuable lessons that shape both their professional and personal growth. The dichotomy of joy and struggle is inherent in the entrepreneurial experience, forming a tapestry that defines the unique and rewarding journey of building and sustaining a business.
Here is our story of entrepreneurship—the struggles, the joy and everything in between:
In 2012, my co-founder Nicole and I embarked on our entrepreneurial journey after working as assistants for an ultra-high-net-worth family in Los Angeles. Initially content with the notion that their complex lives would define our careers, the universe had different plans, steering us toward the role of authors in our own narrative—a story of entrepreneurship and success. While assisting, we recognized a gap in the job market and, leveraging our extensive network, transitioned into founding Pocketbook Agency to address this need.
The early days were a challenging yet transformative experience, wearing multiple hats and learning the ropes of business management. From playing CEOs and finance managers to HR officers and recruiters, we navigated risks and uncertainties, propelling our work from a duo to a dynamic team of twelve operating nationwide. Positioned in a competitive market, Pocketbook became the trusted choice for high-net-worth families and companies across industries, seeking exceptional support staff.
Entrepreneurship, we learned, is akin to a rollercoaster—testing resilience at every turn. Our anchor amidst the chaos was a profound love for connecting people, evolving into the soul of our entire team. “Keep pushing” became our mantra, shaping our approach to challenges. Diverging from impersonal approaches, we introduced a tailored touch ensuring clients and candidates felt genuinely seen and appreciated, with trust and integrity as crucial elements. Our background as former assistants provided a unique advantage, enabling effective matchmaking by understanding the real needs on both sides of the equation.
Clients and job seekers engaging with us experience the passion we have for our mission, extending beyond job placement to professional matchmaking. Witnessing the perfect fit between individuals and employers, we derive satisfaction from making a tangible difference in their lives. Behind the scenes, our success is a collaborative triumph, thriving in a dynamic, passionate and diverse culture where every team member shares the commitment and enthusiasm of its founders.
Reflecting on our journey, our advice is one of persistence—pushing through challenges and embracing each step, no matter how small—as progress toward a dream. Our pride in Pocketbook extends beyond individual effort—it is a result of a cohesive team weathering challenges together. United in excitement, we look forward to continuing our mission of connecting people with their passions. Professional matchmaking isn’t merely a job; it has evolved into our craft, a means of creating meaningful connections in the professional world.
DiversityComm Magazine (DCM): What prompted you to create the Pocketbook Agency and what do you see as its main mission?
Pocketbook Agency was created out of a need in the marketplace—the need to innovate and modernize an age-old industry. Our mission is truly matchmaking—we approach everything we do very passionately and with a mentality to truly make the best possible match between job seekers and employers. We are on a mission to place employees in fulfilling jobs and find the best fit for employers.
DCM: How have your experiences as personal assistants given you the edge in your business today?
Our history as personal assistants gave us first-hand experience into what it takes to succeed in the role. We understand what employers are looking for and its greatly helped us in matchmaking.
DCM: As a boutique recruitment firm, can you speak to the importance of companies incorporating DEI into their workforce?
DEI in the workforce is not just a trend but a strategic imperative for companies seeking sustained success and innovation. The significance of DEI lies in its capacity to foster a workplace culture that values and celebrates differences among employees. This inclusivity not only contributes to a more vibrant and dynamic work environment but also enhances creativity and problem-solving by incorporating a variety of perspectives. This is always an important conversation we have with the employers we work with. Many employers realize the importance of it, but if they do not discuss it, we will make a point to explain its importance and how they can add diversity their team.
DCM: In your opinion, what are a few of the skills and/or attributes employees need to get hired in today’s marketplace?
In today’s dynamic and competitive job market, prospective employees must possess a multifaceted skill set and a range of attributes to stand out to employers. Technical competencies, including digital literacy, data analysis and industry-specific knowledge, are imperative in navigating the contemporary professional landscape. Equally critical are soft skills, such as effective communication, problem-solving acumen, adaptability, creativity and a strong sense of teamwork. Interpersonal skills, particularly emotional intelligence, networking and negotiation abilities, contribute significantly to successful professional engagements.
DCM: As a women-owned firm, what advice would you give to other women entrepreneurs looking to start their own business?
As a women-owned firm, my advice to fellow women entrepreneurs on the journey of starting their own business is rooted in the pillars of confidence, networking and embracing uniqueness. Cultivate confidence in your abilities and trust in your entrepreneurial vision. Establish a robust network of mentors and peers who can provide guidance and support. Embrace your unique perspective as a woman, recognizing diversity as a potent asset in business. Prioritize continuous learning, especially in financial management, to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. Build a strong support system, both personally and professionally, and set realistic goals to mark your progress.
