Close one door. Open another.

3158951644_ff936c3aa1We all know today’s marketing and PR landscape requires us to think differently about how we meet our clients’ needs. Traditional tools and tactics are no longer enough. You need to consider and integrate emerging media into your plans.

But, suggesting plans and hoping clients take action isn’t going to cut it. Organizations need consultants who can help them enact real change and navigate complex business situations. They need people who understand multiple different disciplines–not just one. And, they need counselors who understand business–inside out.

That’s why I’ve decided to officially start my own consultancy, ACH Communications (I know, sexy name), starting on Monday, Oct. 12.

Seems like an odd time to take this kind of risk, doesn’t it? While I can’t argue that point, I’ve never been one to do things the conventional way. I’ve never been a big status quo guy. I like to zig when other zag. It’s what keeps life interesting, right? All I can tell you is it feels like the right thing to do. For me. For my professional life. And, for my family.

I worked for a CMO in a previous life that had a quote on her door that has stuck with me all these years: “No pressure. No diamonds.” If you want all life has to offer, you need to take a few risks. Jump into the deep end.

Well, I just did a great big cannonball. And, I couldn’t be happier.

Now, I would have never got to this point without the help of some incredibly supportive people. Most notably, my wife. Let me tell you, there’s no way anyone pulls this off without the support of their spouse. I got lucky. Angela’s behind me all the way.

But, the following folks have also played a major role in my decision-making process the last few months.

* Jen Wilbur and Kellye Crane, who helped me understand the nuances of starting my own consultancy when I was just hatching the idea. Both offered up their advice and knowledge freely. Without question. Time and time again.

* Amy Mengel, whom I feel like I’m going through this experience with together. See, Amy’s launching her own business, too. I’m actually secretly hoping I’ll have the chance to work together with Amy on a project or two in the near future.

* Paul DeBettignies, Greg Swan, Melanie Boulay Becker and Rick Mahn. My local sounding boards, Paul, Greg, Melanie and Rick have offered advice at times, put me in touch with key folks and pushed me along the way. I most likely would not be doing this without the help and encouragement of these four people.

* Candee Wolf, Shelli Lissick, Brian Bellmont, Jen Bellmont and Bob Rumpza. My first clients! A PRSA colleague, Candee and I have worked before in a prior life. And I’ve come to value her advice and judgment not only as a client and colleague, but also as a friend. And, I’ve had the distinct privilege of reconnecting with a former college friend in Shelli Lissick. And now she’s introduced me to three other wonderful folks in Brian, Jen and Bob. Really looking forward to working with this crew in the months ahead.

* David Mullen, Rachel Kay and Lauren Fernandez. Nothing specific, but these three have been great sounding boards and idea generators for me over the the last year. And, I’ve come to truly value their friendship and insights on a number of topics and angles relative to my new business.

If you’re reading this post, chances are we’ve chatted before either online or off. As a solo consultant, my business will live and die by word of mouth. In essence, my marketing plan is you: My community. My work will speak for itself. I believe my name will be my biggest competitive advantage. And, at the end of the day, I think that will be pretty darn powerful.

But, I need your help.

So, if you’re interested in helping me out–either now, or in the next month, year, 5 years–please do one of the following:

* Refer business my way. Plain and simple. Read more about my services and capabilities here. This is really where you can help me the most. Again, you are my single most important marketing tool.

* Need an engaging speaker for an upcoming conference? While I’m no Chris Brogan, I can speak to a number of issues, challenges and trends in the PR/social media industies. In fact, I’m speaking or moderating at the following upcoming events next month: Unsummit (Oct. 10), BlogWorld (Oct. 15-17); and MN PRSA Professional Practices Conference (Oct. 29).

* Know someone you think I should connect with? Send me a short note and connect me. I truly appreciate each and every lead and connection.

As I take this next step in my career, I can’t help but think it never would have happened without all of you. My community. Over the last year, you’ve challenged my thinking, pushed me to new places and inspired me. Basically, you’ve played a huge role in making this moment possible for me today. So, thank you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. And I hope to do the same for you sometime very soon.

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61 Responses to “Close one door. Open another.”

  1. Brandon Chesnutt  on September 22nd, 2009

    Hey Arik,

    Good luck on your latest venture!

    Brandon
    @bchesnutt

  2. David Spinks  on September 22nd, 2009

    Arik,

    I am EXTREMELY pumped for you. I know you’re doing what you’re passionate about and that you’ll do great things. Major props for taking that leap. You continue to inspire me as a professional, a friend, and a mentor.

    Here’s to your continued success.

    David

  3. Sara Benson  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congratulations Arik! I wish you the best of luck and I’m sure ACH Communications will be a big success!

    Sara

  4. Heather Rast  on September 22nd, 2009

    Arik – I’m very excited for you, knowing this is where your heart and passion is leading. Sounds like you’re mixing your intuition with a great dose of research and due diligence – a wonderful combination for success (well, your talent doesn’t hurt, either :-) . I’m here for you – Heather

  5. Stuart  on September 22nd, 2009

    Grats Arik.

    Was wondering why you went a bit radio silent recently. Now I know :)

  6. ShaneKinkennon  on September 22nd, 2009

    I’m always for folks hanging up their own shingle. Best of luck. -Shane Kinkennon

  7. Kellye Crane  on September 22nd, 2009

    This is great news, Arik — a big cannonball into the deep end is the only way to do it. Congrats!

  8. Sonny Gill  on September 22nd, 2009

    Great news, Arik! Glad to hear you’ve finally made the plunge. I know you’re going to kick butt and do great things! All the best, man.

  9. Lauren Fernandez  on September 22nd, 2009

    I’m so excited for you – I know we’ve been chatting about it for months now, but this is such a great step for you. I know you’ll rock it and do well, and I’m always here to listen. Thanks for the shout-out.

    Proud of you!

    LAF

  10. Sheema  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congratulations and good luck on your new venture!

  11. Deanna Ferrari  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congrats again, Arik! You are awesome.

    Deanna (@dferrari)

  12. Dave Folkens  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congratulations “officially” now sir-
    Like many here, I know that this change will allow you to chase your interests and the elements of PR that interest you the most. As always, shout if I can be of any help and I’m very excited for you.
    -Dave

  13. Adrienne Bailey  on September 22nd, 2009

    This is going down in my all time favorite quotes: “No pressure. No diamonds.If you want all life has to offer, you need to take a few risks. Jump into the deep end.”

    Good luck with everything!!

  14. Jodi Echakowitz  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congrats on your new venture, Arik. Going out on your own is a huge decision. But I’m confident that when you look back in 10 years time, you’ll realize that it was one of the best decisions you’ve ever made. Here’s hoping we can connect on some initiatives down the road as well!

  15. janeco  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congratulations on this next journey! Looking forward to hearing more about it.

  16. Aerocles  on September 22nd, 2009

    Absolutely Amazing! I have no doubt you’ll succeed. Keep us updated on your progress, we’re all excited for you man!

  17. Jessi  on September 22nd, 2009

    Best of Luck in your new venture. It was nice “meeting” you last night! Hopefully we’ll see you in person sometime.

    -Jessi/@MiniJ

  18. Trish Skram  on September 22nd, 2009

    WOW! Congrats, Arik! I can’t wait to hear all about it. Hopefully, it’ll inspire me to get off my bum and explore that arena as well!

    Best, Trish (@trishskram)

  19. Heather Whaling  on September 22nd, 2009

    So excited for you, Arik and can’t wait to take this journey together! :) You’re going to rock! Congrats on the big news!!

    Heather

  20. SaraKate  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congrats and good luck! I’m sure you will do well. Keep up the great work and good things will find you! :)

    Sara

  21. Anthony Deos  on September 22nd, 2009

    Arik – I have been waiting a while to hear/read the official announcement. I am excited for you and wish you all the success in the world.

    Congratulations!

    Talk soon,
    Tony

  22. Dave Fleet  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congratulations Arik, and good luck! It’s a big leap, but I’m sure you’ll land on your feet.

    Oh, and I LOVE “No pressure. No diamonds.”

  23. Kristie  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congratulations! Some characterize becoming a consultant as “going out on your own,” but you’ve already realized you’re not alone. With your network of family, friends, colleagues and now clients, ACH Communications is sure to be a success. Good luck.

  24. arikhanson  on September 22nd, 2009

    I have to say, I am so humbled by the comments above. See, THIS is exactly what I was talking about. My news today is much more about my community–you all–that it is about me.

    Thank you.

    Thank you.

    Thank you.

    @arikhanson

  25. Mike Pilarz  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congrats on the new venture, Arik. I’m pulling for you!

    Cheers,
    Mike

  26. Rachel Kay  on September 22nd, 2009

    Arik,

    So incredibly thrilled for you – this was a natural evolution for you and your new and upcoming clients are fortunate that they will have the chance to learn and grow with your help. You are a very talented PR professional with so much to offer. I look forward to seeing even more successes over the next year and beyond.

    Rachel Kay

  27. valeriesimon  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congratulations Arik! Very much looking forward to watching you follow your passion! Don’t forget those of s who “knew you when!”

  28. Aaron Pearson  on September 22nd, 2009

    Best wishes, Arik. Glad to see you’re taking the leap.

  29. nickigibbs  on September 22nd, 2009

    Well done! Hooray for you!

  30. Deborah Ely-Lawrence  on September 22nd, 2009

    May the “diamonds” be plentiful, high quality and large! I’m so proud of you and all you’ve accomplished. All of your former RSM buddies are already looking at you and saying, “I knew him when…” Keep up the great work. I’m glad you’re out there bringing the rest of us along on your social media journey.

  31. Keith Burtis  on September 22nd, 2009

    Arik, Good Luck! I will keep you in mind for all of the above. Hope we get to work together soon!
    -keith

  32. aaronhanson  on September 22nd, 2009

    CANNONBALL! Exciting stuff, congrats bro!

  33. Abbie S. Fink  on September 22nd, 2009

    good for you! congratulations and best of luck with the new venture.

  34. Albert Maruggi  on September 22nd, 2009

    Good luck Arik, if the home office ever gets boring you can hang at Provident Partners.

  35. roula  on September 22nd, 2009

    Way to take the plunge! Good luck, Arik

  36. Beth Harte  on September 22nd, 2009

    Arik, congratulations!! This is great news and I am looking forward to seeing how absolutely successful you will be. :)

    As well, I am looking forward to the content that will come out of your new experiences.

  37. Margaret Ann Hennen  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congrats, Arik.

  38. Heather Schwartz  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congrats, Arik! I know you will do awesome!

  39. Shannon Paul  on September 22nd, 2009

    Sorry I’m late to the party. All the best to you in your new venture.

  40. tressalynne  on September 22nd, 2009

    Arik, I couldn’t be happier for you! We’ve “known” each other (via Twitter) for nearly a year now and I’ve always been impressed by your knowledge. Best wishes!

  41. David Mullen  on September 22nd, 2009

    This is great news and, I’m sure, a thrilling time for you professionally and personally.

    Great things normally don’t happen overnight as one-offs. They begin with a single small thing and are the culmination of many small steps forward. Remember that as you begin this new venture. Mighty oaks from little acorns grow…

    Best of luck to you, my friend. As you already know, I’m more than happy to serve as a sounding board any time to such a great guy.

    David
    @dmullen

  42. amymengel  on September 22nd, 2009

    One word: w00t!

  43. TwittLink - Your headlines on Twitter  on September 22nd, 2009

    [...] Communications Conversations ยป Close one door. Open another. [...]

  44. RMartin  on September 22nd, 2009

    Arik – Hurrah for you! Congratulations!! (And enjoy working with Jen and Bob. Both were responsible for hiring me at Weber Shandwick 10 years ago and both are great people.)

    Rebecca Martin

  45. Keith Trivitt  on September 22nd, 2009

    Arik – When I heard this news (from THE Lauren Fernandez, no less), I was absolutely thrilled for you! You have been a major inspiration in my professional career, and I – along with many others on here – certainly owe a lot to you.

    If you ever need anything, someone to talk to about a new idea (I’m great for throwing around ideas that may be absolutely crazy but you just get too giddy about that you can’t give it up :) , a goofy guy to be part of a case study, whatever is, please let me know. I’d love to help in whatever way I can.

    BTW, your post about getting your social media MBA actually got me thinking about the possibility of getting my own real MBA some day. Definitely some food for thought! There you go … keep giving clients those kinds of ideas, and you’re gonna do great.

    Keith Trivitt
    @KeithTrivitt

  46. Mariah  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congrats! Best of luck. :-)

  47. rockstarjen  on September 22nd, 2009

    Congrats on making it official, Arik! Exciting times, indeed.

    @rockstarjen

  48. arikhanson  on September 22nd, 2009

    Thank you to all of you who have left comments here today. Really, it means a lot to me.

    Deborah, you know who that “diamonds” quote came from, don’t you? (hint: Her initials are LS)

    Keith: Truly humbled by your comments. Yet another reason why I love playing in this space…

    David: Thanks for the thoughtful comment. I really love your oak/acorn quote. So thankful, really, to have a friend and colleague like you.

    @arikhanson

  49. Shelly Cone/Beach Betty PR  on September 22nd, 2009

    Good luck! It will be worth it.

  50. Scott  on September 22nd, 2009

    I know you’ll do well. Good luck!

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