Meet Trailblazer Wendy Knipp

Today we’d like to introduce you to Wendy Knipp.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about your and your story?
Sounds Good! Just for everyone reading my name is Wendy Knipp and I run the “On The Road With Wendy” brand! I also co-own a commercial and residential contracting company called Knipp Contracting. I will say things that most people won’t. For years, my personality meant that I was different in a way that caused problems in my relationships. I wanted to be direct and open, and I didn’t understand why I didn’t want to sweep things under the rug like other people did. I thought there must be something wrong with me. I was belittled and diminished.

About 12 years ago, I started moving out of my circle. Suddenly, new people were pointing out things I was good at. A light bulb went off, and I realized that my personality was a gift. Twelve years ago, I would have never dreamed of having an online presence, or helping other people. I needed too much help myself. I was going to school, raising kids, and running my own business. But when people asked me what I did, I would say, “Nothing.” I tried to squelch my own voice to make other people comfortable.

Has it been a smooth Road?
Absolutely not! I feel like that’s with anything though, right? Where you want to lose weight you feel like its going to take two weeks and then your set: later on you realizes cheat days exist and your will power isn’t as strong as you maybe thought!  Same things with this, started originally with a small wordpress and instagram effort and thought it would take off right away! I was excited and nothing could stop me! But then things like self-doubt, or “lazy days” start to work themselves in! Nothing ever is as smooth as it seams, I still have a long road ahead of me and try and embrace the uncertainty.

We’d love to hear more about your work.
I would consider myself in the marketing business. For Knipp Contracting I’ve created and manage social media as well as marketing materials for the company.  I utilize Knipp contracting as a platform and connect with the community through donations and volunteer work.

“On the road with Wendy” is my chance to share with the community what I’ve learned in business, marketing and personal development.

Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
My greatest mentor has actually been my husband, Wally. When I needed someone to help me communicate in a way that resonated with others and was truly effective, Wally was the one who helped me the most. I think it’s really important if you are looking for a mentor, to find someone in your field and who complements your personality. Mentoring is a give and take relationship. It’s not coaching. You have to meet your mentor halfway and be willing to do the work. They are there to tell you if you’re moving in the right direction, based on their knowledge of what you’re doing. It’s important that you like them and respect them, that you have the same core values, so that you aren’t led in a direction you don’t want to go.

Networking in general is something I feel very strongly about, and I don’t know that many people really understand what it is. Networking is really about building relationships, and you need to be clear about why you are networking. I would advise someone looking to build a quality network to take an interest in the people around you. Look for ways to add value to their business. For example, can you make a connection for them? Do you have something that has value to them that you can offer?

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ontheroadwithwendy.com, www.knippcontracting.com
• Phone: 623-561-0803
• Email: wendy@ontheroadwithwendy.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/wendyknipp

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