eMinutes Client Profile: Brooke Halpin
Please tell our readers about your business. I am the CEO of Take You Away Productions, LLC and owner of Halpin House West Public Relations.
Tell us about the project you’re currently working on. My 5th book, A Magical Mystery Time, an eBook is published. It’s based on a true story that takes place during the exciting Beatles years: 1964-70. [NOTE: Buy the book here]
Why did you become an entrepreneur? Is starting a business something you always wanted to do? I was born an entrepreneur. When I was a young boy, I asked my friends for toys they no longer wanted, and sold them to other kids in my neighborhood.
What is the number one thing you wish you could learn more about, and how will you learn about it? Dealing with the unpredictability of people. Guess I need to spend time with more people!
How has technology impacted your business? It has had a positive impact on communications. Information sharing moves instantly (when there isn’t a hacker attack or tech meltdown), and Skype calls are very convenient.
How do you use social media in your business? To inform news worthy events and promote products and services.
Did you have a business plan when you started your business, and, if so, how much did you vary from it? The plan was in my head, after years of business experience in New York City. I did, and continue to modify it to keep up with changes taking place.
What was your biggest mistake and what did you learn from it? Trusting some individuals. I have to be more cautious and thoroughly vet someone before doing business with them.
What advice would you offer to a first-time entrepreneur? Start with a dream/desire. To make the dream real, keep one foot firmly planted on the ground, leave no stones unturned, and never give up.
Have you received funding from an outside source, and how has funding (or the lack of funding) impacted your ability to achieve your objectives? Producing feature films requires funding. It’s a long process that involves many people and there are many details that have to be worked out to everyone’s mutual satisfaction. It’s the ultimate chess game.
How do you spend your workday? Communicating – emails, phone calls, facebook, LinkedIn, twitter, meetings.
Who do you rely upon in your business most, and what does he or she do for you that is so invaluable? Business associates that I can trust who provide an objective perspective/thoughts/opinion.
Do you believe that “luck” played any role in the success of your company? Yes, I believe in the elusive lady luck. Luck, and timing.
If you had an extra $25,000 to spend on your business, what would you spend it on? I wouldn’t spend it on my business. I’d take a month off and travel.
How neat or messy is your desk? Half neat, half messy. I know where everything is.