One worker’s advice to fellow Black independent workers
This is part of a series of stories we’re sharing about independent workers. Since February is Black History Month, we’re recognizing the unique stories of Black independent workers. We spoke with Elsabet, a rideshare driver and insurance agent, to learn more about her experience as a Black independent worker.
Elsabet, tell us about yourself and what kind of self-employed work you do.
I am originally from Arkansas, but I have been a resident of Colorado for 35 years. I’ve done rideshare for several years, and I recently began selling life, final expense, and burial insurance as an independent agent.
Being a rideshare driver has helped provide me supplemental income when I need it. Although I don’t drive full-time, it gave me the opportunity to explore other options for being my own boss, like selling insurance, as my next career move. I’ve met so many kind-hearted people while driving, and I’m so grateful for the experiences I’ve had.
I love to travel, volunteer, and spend time with family and close friends. I love meeting new people and learning about them and their culture. Photography is a hobby of mine that I love to do when traveling or when I’m out and about. I love capturing unique pictures and sharing them along the way. Google recently informed me that my photographs have been viewed over 2 million times—how cool is that!
What are some of the unique challenges you’ve faced while working for yourself?
By Elsabet Lee
As an insurance agent, it can be difficult to find qualified people who need what I have to offer. People need insurance but often procrastinate in getting the protection they need. I try to find qualified people either by word of mouth or by purchasing leads, since they’re already interested in buying insurance. I find this is a better solution than bugging my family and friends to try to get them to buy something.
What are some of the unique advantages of working for yourself?
The advantages when working for yourself are that you are in control of your time and schedule, and thus, you must treat your business accordingly. As they say, treat your business like a hobby, and it will pay you like a hobby. Treat it like a business, and it will pay you like a business. You have to be intentional if you want to be of service to others.
What advice would you give to fellow Black Americans who want to work for themselves?
The advice I would give to fellow Black Americans who want to work for themselves is to have faith in yourselves, even if no one else may see your dream or vision. Keep in mind that God gave you that dream or vision, and it’s up to you to fulfill it to the best of your ability.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
My journey as a self-employed worker has had its ups and downs. I wouldn't trade it for anything because I have learned and grown from each experience. I've had several different types of opportunities that allowed me to become self-employed. I realize that I have to discipline myself a lot and stick to the course.
I come from a heritage where our people were resilient in a lot of areas and were taught to stick with it because it’s worth it. My heritage has taught me that I have to make sacrifices for what I want to have the life I deserve. My heritage has also taught me that the price for success must be paid in advance.
If your work doesn't challenge you, it won't change you. You have to care about people. I want to be the person who makes everyone feel special. My heritage has also taught me that I have no value without God. God has made all things possible for me and has given me the strength to continue my journey into entrepreneurship.
Thanks for sharing your story with the Stride community, Elsabet!
