This social dynamo is the one you always wish you could emulate. You can put Mara Shapiro in a room full of strangers and she’ll know everyone by name by evening’s end. On the other hand, this book worm appreciates a good read and is also a talented writer.  Not only does Mara blog for Women in Biz, she’s also the Blogger-in-Chief for her own blog "Be Nice or Leave" and most recently the Editor of "Parent Our Teens".

Mara Shapiro

1. Tell us about your business.

I am a professional communicator:  I’m a writer, blogger, and training facilitator.  In essence, I help my clients to get the word out, whether they want a plan so they can expand their reach and community themselves, or they want assistance in project implementation, I’m a resource to ensure that they build a strong and engaged community.  As well, I’m the Editor of the newly launched site, ‘Parent Our Teens‘, which will be a resource to share the joys and tribulations of bringing up tweens and teens.

2. Other than being an entrepreneur, who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m a mom of three kids, two dogs and one husband.  I love to read, cook, shop, practice yoga, and socialize (especially if there’s red wine involved).  I believe in the power of laughter, and try to infuse humour into my life whenever I can. I suffer from both momzheimers and an allergy to housework.  As well, I may be Robert Downey Jr’s next wife, but I haven’t really told him yet.

3. What motivated you to go into business for yourself?

I decided to go out on my own so I could develop true satisfaction, happiness, and contentment for myself and my family.  I want to love what I do, and have what I do love me.  Being an entrepreneur enables me to live what I believe: integrity, respect, and a passion for your community.

4. How do you overcome challenges and obstacles in your business?  

I am much more of a creative than a numbers person.  I get a lot of ideas, but then I have to implement them.   But, I truly believe that putting yourself out of your comfort zone develops character, and helps you to grow your skills in new ways.  So, challenges? Meh!  Just get ‘er done is what I say!

5. What are your greatest strengths as an entrepreneur?  

My greatest strengths are my creativity and my willingness to go the extra mile to get things done right.  I was always taught that you shouldn’t ever do something unless its done half way.  I truly devote myself to a project, and take its success personally.

6. What are you most passionate about in your business?

I am so passionate about excellence and entanglement.  There are so many opportunities to create relationships and community, and when I can do that, through providing fabulous experiences for your clients, that’s when I feel like I’m really successful.

7. What is one piece of helpful advice you would give to other entrepreneurs?

Think about everywhere you worked prior to owning your own business.  Think about all the things you liked about your work environments, leaders, companies.  Do that. Think about the things you didn’t like about those places.  Don’t do those.

Follow Mara on Twitter, Linkedin.