"If You Don't Try, You Will Never Know..."

Cathleen Faerber is the Managing Director of her own executive search firm in Buffalo Grove, IL. In business for more than 18 years, she provides "retainer based executive search services to companies on a national basis." Her staff includes two Directors and two contract researchers. "Previously, I was in the field of Human Resources where I led the HR initiatve for firms in financial services and manufacturing. I have a BA Degree from DePaul University."

Cathleen says she always "knew that I wanted to be in my own business. I started my business when I was

33 years old. I was also 4 months pregnant with twins at the time. The ultimate motivation was balancing my career with my family." Demonstrating that "anything is possible," she earned her bachelors degree over a 10-year period, attending night school. "If you believe you can - you can!!"

"I had already transitioned into Executive Search when I decided to start my business. Fortunately, I had a great deal of experience on both sides of the desk as it relates to recruiting. I knew what I liked and what I

didn't like about firms that were already established. I took that experience and created a business model that is customer focused and true to executive search," she explains.

And she admits that initially, "a lot of people thought I was crazy. Starting a family - especially with twins is enough of a change - let alone go into business too. However, I believe in following my instincts and it has worked out quite well - I'm still here 18+ years later." Moreover, her income paid the family mortgage.

"I have found that "going into business" is the easy part. "Staying there" is the hard part," Cathleen says. "Things change. Clients, their needs and the market. It's very important not to get too comfortable. I did fall into that trap - once!!"

Her advice to other women who want to start their own business? "Go For It!!!! You have nothing to lose, except time. If you don't try - you will never know," encourages Cathleen. "To start - talk to other women who have already done it, and listen."