Sheri a.k.a. Ze Mean Belgian Frog

So far so good

Posted on 2009/10/25 07:39:50 (October 2009).

Some of you know that I was considering going freelance. It’s now official. I started my business on October 1st. As it takes time to advertise in the yellow pages (had to wait for the coming of a sales rep), I thought it wise to go canvassing door to door. Physical contact is important and I managed to find two customers : a company dealing in metal recycling and another one building customized robots for the manufacturing industry.

Now, in order to be more competitive, the French governement has issued a law which compels companies to devote a percentage of their turnover to training courses (for their employees).

In a country like mine, ie France, teaching English (which is my trade*) is tantamount to standing on a gold heap.

My priority goes to building a network. Among my students I have two CEOs whom I managed to befriend. It helps. Cose those people have useful connections.

I hope it’ll work. I think it will. Firstly because there is a demand for it. Secondly because I have acquired sufficient experience to know what they want and provide what they need. Thirdly because... well... I became much more sociable. I enjoy socializing. Not only when it serves my own interests. I just enjoy talking with people. They feel it and, I believe, like me for it.

What happened to me ? I suddenly feel... “grown up”. And for the first time ever I feel confident. Is it because I’ve had my third child ? Did it trigger something in me ? I have a family. A true family now. Of which I’m the Pater Familiae. I feel true love for them. True love mixed with a deep sense of authority and responsibility. Authority which, naturally, I share with my lovely wife Christelle.

Inner peace. At last.

* I teach business and corporate English.

Comment 1

Nice one Sheri, I am totally happy for you! I used to teach English and I loved it, it's probably because teaching runs in my genes (my parents are both professors at Uni)... If you happen to meet some CEO who's looking for an Export Managed specialized in Asian countries, would you consider mentioning me to their attention?

Posted by Lox at 2009/10/25 10:03:11.

Comment 2

I don't know, Lox. What are your credentials? I need your cv, a nice covering letter and at least two tangible references! ......... no, make it three!
;-)

Posted by Sheri at 2009/10/25 17:13:24.

Comment 3

Ah! Great news! Sounds very interesting work.

I also think the socialising thing is something you *grow* into. True, some people are born that way, but for most I guess confidence comes with experience (or maybe blind ignorance!)

Personally, I think it's that big motorbike - it's got your hormones pumping!!! ;-))

Posted by Nigel at 2009/10/25 22:10:45.

Comment 4

(P.S - I can always be relied upon to remain "daft" no matter what age and experience I attain. It must be in my jeans ... Levi 501... :-D )