As part of the Morning Lazziness series about empowering women who encourage and do incredible things with their ideas in society, I had the pleasure of interviewing Tanya Bourque.
Tanya Bourque is a dynamic entrepreneur and human resources expert with extensive experience across multiple industries. She is the founder of OpExpert, a consulting firm specializing in fractional HR and recruiting services, where she has successfully advised leaders and recruited over 2,000 professionals. With over 200 startups under her belt, ranging from Seed to Series D, Tanya has demonstrated a unique ability to understand both the culture of a company and the needs of candidates, ensuring high-quality hires.
Tanya’s experience spans numerous leadership roles in talent acquisition, notably at Infosys and Tata Consultancy Services, where she led large-scale recruitment efforts for Fortune 100 companies. In addition, she’s worked with startups as an operations strategist, developing HR infrastructure and systems. Her passion for technology is evident as she frequently integrates HR tech solutions and automates recruiting processes.
In 2022, Tanya expanded her entrepreneurial pursuits by founding Bime Beauty, a female-owned beauty brand specializing in hair tools and cosmetics. Her diverse career includes being a published author, life coach, and advisor in various industries. Tanya’s drive for efficiency and her ability to turn challenges into strategic opportunities make her a key figure in both HR and the beauty industry.
Speaks several languages Tanya holds an MBA in Business Management and Human Resources from the University of Maryland University College, and she is certified in Life Coaching and HR.
Here’s what we found out about Tanya’s daily routine, followed by an exclusive Q+A.
Can you share the story behind your journey as an entrepreneur and what inspired you to start your own business?
My Entrepreneurial Journey: A Family Affair
My entrepreneurial spirit seems to be deeply ingrained in my DNA. Growing up, I watched my parents navigate the challenges and triumphs of self-employment. Their example instilled in me a strong desire for independence and the freedom to pursue my own passions.
After years of working in corporate talent acquisition, I found myself growing increasingly frustrated with the bureaucratic red tape and stifling politics. Despite my dedication and hard work, I felt undervalued and limited by the rigid structures of the corporate world. The final straw came when I was overlooked for a promotion and replaced by a manager from overseas. This experience, coupled with the deteriorating health of my parents, pushed me to take a leap of faith and start my own business.
In February 2016, I founded OpExpert, a company that aligned with my personal values and allowed me to work on my own terms. The flexibility of remote work was invaluable, enabling me to be there for my family during challenging times, particularly as my father underwent open heart surgery. Within just two years, OpExpert had surpassed my previous corporate earnings, demonstrating the potential of entrepreneurship.
While my subsequent ventures, Fortune Luck Success and Bime Beauty, explored different avenues, they all shared a common thread: a desire to pursue my passions and make a positive impact. Bime Beauty, in particular, has allowed me to combine my love for beauty with my commitment to diversity and inclusivity.I founded Bime Beauty because I saw a gap in the market for hair tools that cater to a diverse range of hair types and textures, and I wanted to create products that work for everyone.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in the business world, and how have you overcome them?
As a woman in business, I’ve encountered numerous challenges, including gender bias and the assumption that I might not be as capable as my male counterparts. Overcoming these obstacles has required a combination of persistence, networking, and strong communication skills.
One effective strategy has been to build a network of supportive individuals and businesses. By connecting with other women entrepreneurs and industry professionals, I’ve found mentors, collaborators, and valuable resources. Additionally, I’ve actively sought out opportunities to network at industry events and conferences, forging relationships that have opened doors and provided new perspectives.
Moreover, I’ve learned the importance of assertive communication. While mansplaining and dismissive attitudes can be disheartening, it’s essential to stand firm and advocate for your ideas. By clearly articulating your expertise and demonstrating your capabilities, you can challenge stereotypes and earn the respect of your peers.
How do you balance your professional and personal life as an entrepreneur?
Balancing work and personal life is a constant challenge for entrepreneurs. However, effective time management and prioritization are key to maintaining a healthy equilibrium. I rely heavily on calendars and scheduling tools to plan my days and ensure that I allocate sufficient time for both my professional and personal commitments.
Family is a top priority for me, and I’ve made a conscious effort to involve my son in my entrepreneurial journey. He has accompanied me on business trips, attended industry conferences, and even assisted at our Bime Beauty booth. These experiences have not only strengthened our bond but have also exposed him to the exciting world of entrepreneurship.
Remote work has been a game-changer in terms of work-life balance. It allows me to be more flexible and present for important family events. While there are challenges associated with remote work, such as staying focused and maintaining boundaries, the benefits in terms of time and flexibility far outweigh the drawbacks.
What strategies have you found most effective for networking and building connections in your industry?
Building strong relationships is essential for success in the business world. I’ve found that attending industry events, volunteering for relevant organizations, and participating in mastermind groups are effective ways to expand my network. Additionally, creating and sharing valuable content through articles, blog posts, and social media has helped me establish myself as an expert in my field.
Offering free training and resources, as well as supporting other businesses, can also be powerful networking strategies. By providing value to others, you can build goodwill and foster mutually beneficial relationships.
How do you approach mentorship and seek guidance in your entrepreneurial journey?
Mentorship has played a crucial role in my entrepreneurial development. I’ve sought guidance from experienced professionals within my network, as well as from online resources and communities. Additionally, I’ve given back by mentoring others, which has not only been rewarding but has also provided valuable learning opportunities.
Building a strong network is essential for finding mentors and seeking guidance. By actively connecting with individuals who have achieved success in your industry, you can learn from their experiences and gain valuable insights.
Can you talk about a specific setback or failure you’ve experienced in your business and how you bounced back from it?
One of the most significant challenges I faced during the early stages of my entrepreneurial journey was building a sustainable client base. The competitive landscape and economic conditions made it difficult to attract clients and generate revenue. However, I persevered by adapting my business model and focusing on providing more consultative services. By offering tailored solutions to clients with limited budgets, I was able to differentiate myself from traditional agencies and secure a steady stream of business.
In what ways do you prioritize diversity and inclusion within your company or startup?
Diversity and inclusion are core values at Bime Beauty. I believe that everyone deserves to feel beautiful and confident, regardless of their background or appearance. When building my team, I prioritize skills, attitude, and values over superficial factors. I’ve hired individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures, fostering a workplace that is inclusive and respectful.
Creating a diverse and inclusive environment requires not only intentional hiring practices but also a commitment to fostering a culture of belonging. Open communication, equal opportunities, and a focus on employee well-being are essential components of a successful diversity and inclusion strategy.
How do you stay motivated and resilient during tough times in your business?
Maintaining motivation and resilience during challenging times is crucial for entrepreneurs. I’ve found that setting clear goals, practicing self-care, and focusing on solutions rather than problems are effective strategies. Meditation, exercise, and spending time in nature help me to manage stress and maintain a positive mindset.
Additionally, adopting a design thinking approach has been beneficial in overcoming obstacles. By focusing on understanding the problem, generating ideas, and prototyping solutions, I’m able to approach challenges with creativity and optimism.
What advice would you give to other aspiring women entrepreneurs who are just starting out?
To aspiring women entrepreneurs, I offer the following advice:
- Find your niche: Identify your unique strengths and passions and build a business around them.
- Network extensively: Attend industry events, connect with other entrepreneurs, and build relationships with potential clients and partners.
- Give back: Contribute to your community and support other businesses to foster goodwill and create opportunities for collaboration.
- Take care of yourself: Prioritize self-care, including physical and mental health, to maintain your energy and resilience.
- Diversify your income: Explore multiple revenue streams to reduce risk and create a sustainable business.
- Follow your passion: Pursue a business that you love and are excited about.
What is one quote you live by that has guided you in your entrepreneurial journey?
A mentor once told me, “The three most harmful addictions are heroin, carbohydrates, and a salary.” This quote has served as a powerful reminder of the importance of breaking free from the constraints of a traditional job and pursuing my entrepreneurial dreams.
Can you share a memorable success or milestone that you’ve achieved in your entrepreneurial career?
One of my proudest accomplishments was achieving record-breaking revenue in 2019. This milestone not only validated my entrepreneurial journey but also provided me with the resources to expand my business and create new opportunities.
