Cheryl DeClercque of PNW Virtual

Tell us about your business.

I am a technical SEO specialist and a Facebook ad manager. I work with web designers doing on-page SEO so that they can have faster site launches and deliver the best website to the client. I run Facebook ad campaigns primarily for Events. Keeping on top of both ever-changing industries so that my clients don't have to.

What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why?

The greatest inspiration has been watching people crush it in their businesses. I love seeing other people rocking it! I also try to remind myself...small steps can get you over every hill especially on the hardest ones. I have a clear vision that keeps me inspired, and goals that keep me on the right path. I went on a yoga retreat in Costa Rica where we studied our dharma code, it was amazing and has forever changed my life.

What would you say is your greatest business success to date?

My greatest success has been my start. I was a dental assistant for years with 4 little ones. I found it harder and harder to work in the dental office because of limited childcare. I wanted to be able to work from home. It took me years to find a solution. I have always loved marketing, so when I heard about virtual assisting, I thought well I could do that! I started out by taking a course, learning how to do some Virtual Assistant skills, and soon started working with clients. It wasn't easy, it was scary, and it took a lot of time to learn. To say that I started my own business, doing what I love almost 5 years later, is a success to me. I did it!!!

What is the greatest obstacle you have faced in your business?

The greatest obstacle has been believing in myself, letting some work go, and focusing on what I love to do. I changed gears in 2020 and decided to focus on offering SEO and Facebook ads. The two things that I found myself drawn to and always taking extra time to learn. That meant letting go of doing all the things and letting go of the virtual assistant title. This opened up so much mental space and time. I marched forward wanting to be a specialist in two areas that I could put time and energy into.

What are the things that help you stay organized and get things done?

I stay organized by making a daily task list in my planner. I write the client's name and then next to it, the task that I am working on for that day or week in some cases. I love to cross things off my list so it works for me. I take mental note of deadlines and make sure that I always have buffer room for project overlap or delays.

Since you are also a mom, how do you balance everything?

I try to get most of my work done during the day when the kids are at school. I sometimes stay up late to get things done. I also try to keep a very tidy house. It helps my mind feel less cluttered and less overwhelm when I don't see stuff everywhere. I also have some easy go-to healthy meals that help! And a big thank you to clicklist!

Do you think being a mom has helped you with the success of your business? if so, how?

I think being a mom has tremendously helped with my business. Moms definitely learn to multi-task very well. We can watch time and dates like a hawk. I also think it has helped me focus on my business. My business is my escape. It's where I find value, my identity, and my love for helping others. It is a space where I can do something different from being a mom, which is important to me.

What advice would you give to other moms who dream about starting their own business, but they don’t think they can do it all?

My advice: just start! Do little things to move you towards where you want to go. Small steps, baby steps, will get you there! Follow your desires and passions, we only have one short life. The best advice has been: start somewhere! Nobody is going to do it for you. You have to be the one that takes the first steps on your path.

Do you have any stories you’d like to share that may amuse, entertain or inspire others?

I want people to know that they can do it! There will be ups and so many downs in the online space. but keep at it! If you want to create a different life for yourself and your family, you can! Remember, a learner is a grower at any age. grow into who you want to be!