Crib Sheet #74: Spencer & Rozwadowski, LLP’s Emily Rozwadowski

Don’t know how to balance your work with your family life?  Emily does. Find out why attorney Emily Rozwadowski, Esq., started up her very own practice, when she knew to turn her attention to the better things in life, and how the hardest part of her job is probably similar to the hardest part of your job, too.

What business did you start up?

I started my own law firm, Spencer & Rozwadowski, LLP, which specializes in estate planning and business law.

What motivated you to do it?

I wanted to have more flexibility to spend time with my son.

How many children do you have, and how old are they?

I have a two-year old and another one on the way.

How long have you been running your business?

I started it about a year and a half ago.

How long did it take you to start becoming profitable and/or successful, however you choose to measure success?

It took about six months to become profitable.  It’s still not as successful as I would like it to be but every month is an improvement!

How did your family react to you starting your own business?

My husband and family were (and still are) very supportive.

Easiest part of your job?

The easiest part of my job is meeting with clients and discussing their legal issues.  The part that is the most fun is networking.

Hardest part of your job?

The hardest part of my job is getting the clients in the first place.

What skill would you most like to improve?

I would like to improve my skills at turning a potential client’s vague promise to meet and become a client into a real client.

What tools or advice do you wish you knew then that you know now?

That when you have children it’s important to turn off the email and not answer the phone when you are with them.  I have learned that it’s hard to answer phone calls and emails when my son is around and needing my attention.  I no longer do it.  Most things can wait until the next day when I have childcare.

What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?

I am proud of myself for starting the business in the first place!

Favorite part of a typical day?

My favorite time of day is when my son asks me to read him a book.

And a few more questions, considering that American Express should be featuring more mom entrepreneurs…

Childhood ambition? Journalist – Obviously changed my mind!

Time of day you get the most work done?  Mornings.

Last purchase?  Toy drill for my son’s birthday.

Favorite book or magazine? Jane Eyre

Least likely to…..sky dive.

My life…..is never boring.