Crib Sheet #13: Author and Speaker Alexandra Levit.

This momtrepreneur has diversified her talents and seemingly does it all. Alexandra Levit has written three books, speaks regularly at corporate functions about her expertise, and is a media darling on all things job-related after college graduation. Read on, aspiring writers and speakers…and watch her on TV, below.

What business did you start up?

Workplace advice consultancy.

What motivated you to do it?

The desire to meet new people and have an alternative revenue stream for my nonfiction book writing.

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

One child, Jonah, 12 months.

How long were/have you been running your business?

Since 2005, but full time since 2008.

How long did it take you to start becoming profitable and/or successful (however you chose to measure success)?

Because I took a measured approach and set small goals at first, I was always successful in a way, but I would say that it was only last year that I became objectively successful (i.e. able to support my family with my business).

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

Everyone was very supportive, but part of their positive response was due to the fact that I always had a safety net under me. Until last year, I was still very involved with my original career, which meant that I always had a means to pay the bills.

How did you get from writing down a few things to publishing a book?

I developed a non-fiction book proposal, which is similar to a business plan.

How did you get published?

A book deal, but for a very paltry advance. Most first-time authors have to start that way to establish credibility. After a few books, you have more options.

What were you doing before becoming an author/speaker?

I worked in marketing communications, developing offline and online promotional campaigns for Fortune 500 companies.

Easiest part of your job?

Writing.

Hardest part of your job?

Dealing with tax and administrative issues.

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

There is no such thing as an overnight success. Everyone with great accomplishments has, in one way or another, worked very hard for them. More practically speaking, hook up with a mentor who is already established in your area of business, and make sure you understand the realities of life as an entrepreneur before embarking on the journey. It’s not for everyone.

Can you recommend 3 essential websites for moms in, or going into, business?

www.ladieswholaunch.com.
www.downtownwomensclub.com.
www.sba.gov.

Anything else I should have asked you that you should answer?

I am the author of three career advice books, which are They Don’t Teach Corporate in College, How’d You Score That Gig?, and Success for Hire. I am also a columnist for the Wall Street Journal who speaks at universities, corporations, and conferences on issues facing modern employees.

A few more questions, just because American Express should be featuring more momtrepreneurs…..

childhood ambition…..To be an actress.
Fondest memory…..Summers at the beach with family and friends.
Indulgence…..Girl Scout cookies and Valentine’s chocolates.
Last purchase…..A new Coach bag for my birthday.
Favorite magazine…..Don’t really read magazines, check out snippets of tons of publications online.
Inspiration…..At the moment, Michelle Obama.
My Life…..is a quest for contentment.