LaQuita Cleare

Surround yourself with like-minded people and don’t be afraid to have a small circle.

 

LaQuita Cleare is a communication expert and public speaking coach who travels the world speaking and preparing CEOs, executives and other public figures to enhance their on-stage, on-camera and media presence. Through her company Clear Media Communication Academy, she has worked with Fortune 500 companies, companies with billion-dollar acquisitions, and entrepreneurs paving a path for themselves. She has also represented top brands like Samsung, Chase Bank, Cover Girl, Jameson, Hallmark and others at events across the U.S. as a speaker and developing key narratives for marketing teams. LaQuita’s work has enabled her to make appearances on NBC, ABC, FX Network, Lifetime, LA Talk Radio, and various web-based shows. She has performed on stages across the country making her a trusted resource for stage presence skills.

With degrees in both Psychology and theatre, she uses her background to help clients become more dynamic speakers and to create both their personal and business brands. She works in one on one sessions, small-large group sessions, tours where she designs unique training programs, and as a key note speaker.

Where did the idea for Clear Media Communication Academy come from?

I was always intrigued by communication. I saw how poor communication skills could hold people back. While exceptional communicators make money, have loyal fans and seem to be more likeable overall. With a background in acting, I was always the go to person for family and friends to ask for advice on speaking and stage presence. I already had degrees in both Psychology and Theatre when I became obsessed with studying verbal and nonverbal communication. I began figuring out techniques that could help people quickly improve. I wanted to create a company to help entrepreneurs cultivate the most important business tool they have, “Their Voice.” With several clients already under my belt, I decided to make it official and start my company.

What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?

My days are quite long, so I always start with a quick workout to give me energy. Creating a daily to do list helps keep me on track. Then the day consists of preparing keynote speeches, coaching clients on Skype and in person, and creating lesson plans for upcoming workshops. I have a great team who I also work with on business development.

I travel a lot internationally, so sometimes my work day is on a long international flight or in an airport lounge. There is never a dull moment, as I am always meeting new people, learning about new cultures and helping bring stories to life.
The day usually ends with me finally realizing that Rome wasn’t built in a day and that I must sleep.

How do you bring ideas to life?

Of course, my best ideas come at night when I am trying to sleep. I write everything down! This way I can take ideas from my brain and put them to action. Then I make a step by step plan and stick to it!

What’s one trend that excites you?

Online learning! It excites me that there are so many opportunities to learn online. There are no excuses to not educate yourself!

What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?

I am more productive because I don’t procrastinate. I rarely put off for tomorrow what I can do today.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Surround yourself with like-minded people and don’t be afraid to have a small circle.

Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on.

We have the power to change our circumstances. It may be more difficult for some depending on where you came from or the resources available to you, but you still can have what you want. We all have the same 24 hours in a day. What will you do with yours?

As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?

I always analyze what is working and not working in my business. By keeping track of what is not working, you can fix small issues before they become problems.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business?

The best business strategy is making sure that your current customers are happy. A happy customer is your best form of advertising.

What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?

I think we only fail as entrepreneurs if we don’t learn a lesson. Some lessons I’ve just paid top dollar to learn. Being able to clearly articulate my brand has been something that I’ve overcome. It’s not what you do, but what everyone understands about what you do.

What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?

An all in one app for international travel that connects you to the best local workspaces, nearest cafes with wifi, stores, and more. With an added translation feature where you can choose a live translator or machine translation.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?

A spa experience in Thailand. It is important to re-charge. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Zoom! It is great for client meetings and even big groups.

What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?

“Thinking, Fast and Slow,” by Daniel Kahneman. This book will really give you insights on human behavior.

What is your favorite quote?

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Martin Luther King, Jr.

Key learnings:

• Don’t forget the importance of clearly communicating your brand.
• Make sure that your current customers are happy if you want to grow your business. Word of mouth is the best form of advertising.
• Create a clear plan with action steps in order to accomplish your goals.
• Communication is the most important business tool that you have. Good leadership is all about communication.

Connect:

www.laquitacleare.com
www.clearmediatraining.com
Facebook:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/laquitacleare
Twitter: @LaQuitaCleare