GET TO KNOW:
Jane Applegate, Executive Producer, Applegate Group
Currently Reading: Steve Jobs [Biography] by Walter Isaacson
Hobbies: Gardening, and writing
Favorite Vacation Spot: Where it’s warm and sunny.
Website: www.theapplegategroup.com
MEET JANE APPLEGATE
As an award-winning investigative reporter for the LA Times, Jane Applegate reported on white-collar crime and fraud for several years. She questioned why she was writing about the dark side of business instead of something positive. With a book contract, radio show and syndicated column, in 1991, Applegate quit her job and thus began her “leap into the unknown,” as she puts it. Along with her background as journalist, Applegate cultivated video production skills through making appearance and speaking engagements, and began the Applegate Group, a multimedia production and consulting company. She learned how to write and produce TV shows. And also worked with sponsors to do small events and trade shows. The Applegate Group focuses on small business content. The firm provides original content including video and web production, for small businesses, but all sponsored by corporate clients. Applegate’s leap into the unknown has proved both advantageous and fulfilling. She is currently, writing, producing and hosting a Microsoft-sponsored online talk show entitled Tech Essentials with Jane Applegate. And independence allows her to travel the country for speaking engagements, author books (she has four titles to her name), and enjoy the 400-acre, lakefront Vermont retreat she calls home.
HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO BUILD A STEADY BUSINESS? HOW DID YOU DO IT?
I was very fortunate. The foundation of my business was my syndicated column as it provided the basis of my income. I also sold my first book. The model was set quite early. I I’ve always written and produced my own radio shows. Owning my intellectual property gave me more control. And corporate clients gave me credibility. Through my firm, I connected big corporations with small business owners they’re trying to reach.
DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL DAY.
I live in rural Vermont and am home-based. When I’m home, my days are focused on writing, research for my new book, doing phone interviews, writing scripts, books, articles, blogs, etc. When I’m out, I’m traveling to speaking engagements. I speak about 3-4 times a month in the spring and fall. Speaking engagements are mostly sponsored by Bloomberg, and who is also my publisher. When speaking at small business events, I network and get more great ideas for stories to write.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT BEING AN INDEPENDENT PROFESSIONAL?
I really like the freedom to set my own schedule. I like projects; I am very oriented towards beginning, middle and end. I love the excitement of executing and tracking new projects. I am usually working on 2-3 projects so I never get bored. I also get to work with wonderful people. I work with many former colleagues who are experienced TV producers and writers.
© 2011 MBO Partners
“You need to be able to completely focus on your independent life to have a successful business.”
WHAT CHALLENGES YOU MOST IN YOUR INDEPENDENT WORK LIFE?
The uncertainty of what’s next. Doing the forward planning. Constantly promoting myself and my services, and pitching new clients.
HOW DOES INDEPENDENCE WORK FOR YOU IN VERMONT?
Independence gives me the opportunity to enjoy a very outdoorsy lifestyle, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and swimming. It’s a nice balance from my former city life.
DESCRIBE YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH MBO PARTNERS.
I’ve had terrific reps who have been very supportive. The process is smooth, and increasing my tax withholding is helpful.
WOULD YOU RECOMMEND INDEPENDENT WORK TO YOUR FRIENDS? WHY OR WHY NOT?
I work very closely with former colleagues who have set up their own successful websites and businesses. I have encouraged others to take the leap into entrepreneurship.
WHAT TIPS DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHERS WHO ARE THINKING ABOUT WORKING FOR THEMSELVES?
Have at least six months of living expenses tucked away. You need to be able to completely focus on your independent life to have a successful business. Learn patience, no matter what size client you are dealing with. Lots of corporations have unique payment structures. You should have a reserve. Look into a commercial credit line for when you’re waiting to be paid. It’s also important not to be isolated to connect with people you respect. Go to national professional meetings. It’s really important to get out and meet your competition.
