Meet Karen DeYoung, the entrepreneurial force behind DeYoung Consulting Services, one of the 14 values-driven businesses that have come together in support of Pollen’s mission to invest in human connection. Together, they challenge Pollenites to raise $15,000 by Give to the Max Day on November 16, which they will match dollar for dollar. Match the hive and donate today.
Photo by Bobby Rogers
DeYoung Consulting Services isn’t just another consulting firm. They’re experts in helping clients work more efficiently. Since 1996, they’ve provided organizations with the insights they need to impact the systems, communities and environments in which they work. DeYoung provides training, research, outreach and communications, performance improvement, and organizational development services to organizations so they can more effectively achieve their mission.
DeYoung’s organizational values include collaboration, professionalism, rigor, investing in community, integrity and respect, maintaining a global perspective, and customized, responsive service.
How long have you been running your business? When did you know you wanted to become an entrepreneur?
I’ve been running my business for 20 years, though during the first 10 years I worked very part time. I think I’m like a lot of entrepreneurs; I love the flexibility of being my own boss and being in charge of my own destiny. I did some consulting when I was in graduate school and took a full time job once I graduated. After being laid off from that job, I realized I missed the flexibility and autonomy that I had with consulting. Over the years, the firm has grown to include many team members, each with their own area of expertise.
I love the flexibility of being my own boss and being in charge of my own destiny.
How do you find support from peers to stay inspired and motivated?
Collaboration with peers who share similar values with respect to integrity, an abundance mentality, high quality services, and a global perspective is what has kept me in the consulting business for so long. I love working with other people. And while it’s important to share values, creativity and innovation are borne by sharing diverse perspectives. I know that as human beings, we hate change. I depend on outside perspectives to take me beyond “this is the way we’ve always done it.”
Creativity and innovation are borne by sharing diverse perspectives.
Describe a few of your favorite client projects?
We’re currently working with Ramsey County to conduct an assessment of its hiring, recruitment, and retention practices. The goal is to suggest policies and processes that encourage recruitment and retention of great talent, with a particular eye for attracting diverse talent.
I also just completed a facilitation project with the Jefferson Center. I co-facilitated a series of meetings in which residents of Willmar learned about various electoral processes that could potentially be implemented in their city, as well as ways in which they can participate in the political process.
I also recently worked with a team to conduct a strategic plan and feasibility analysis for a Hmong organization that hopes to build a Hmong Community Center in a small town in Minnesota.
Do you have a favorite mantra or quote to keep you going and inspired?
I conduct my life with the strong belief that what you put out into the world comes back to you. Not necessarily from the person you give it to, but it does come back.
Join Karen:
DONATE TO MATCH THE HIVE TODAY
Find DeYoung Consulting Services and give them an online hug for supporting Pollen.
t: @DeYoungKaren
f: facebook.com/DeYoungConsultingServices
w: deyoungconsultingservices.com