Today we’d like to introduce you to Candice Holland.
Candice, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
In my 1st year as a special education teacher, I heard a little voice tell me, “You will only teach for five years” I was surprised because I was in a teaching program called Memphis Teaching fellows and I loved my job. Fast forward five years later after a move to Dallas, and I had the title of teacher, but I did not get to actually teach my students. I just completed paperwork while my teacher aides taught my students.
I was unfulfilled and wanted a change where I could affect change. I searched for jobs and found one that I shortly realized was my purpose and gift. I became an employment specialist for people with disabilities. I not only help my clients land and keep jobs, I am sometimes their therapist and the only source of encouragement in their lives… I worked for two different companies for about four years, and about two and a half years ago, started Excel Employment Services.
Owning a business is not without its challenges, but it is so rewarding and is such a blessing. In my moments of frustration, I have to remember how fortunate I am to do something I love and help people at the same time.
Has it been a smooth road?
No!! Entrepreneurship never is! Like any business or job, there are challenges. I learned late last year that as a business owner it is necessary to wear every hat in business (accountancy, human resources, personal relations, etc., lol). It keeps you humble though. It keeps you grounded.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am contracted with the state of Texas and I help people with disabilities find jobs. I work with people throughout the area. I am most proud of the fact that, no matter how difficult it has gotten, I have not given up.
Like most entrepreneurs, in times of challenges, I have people tell me I have been too generous or made some bad decisions, but I would not trade those choices for anything. I have learned and grown from them and they have made me a more savvy businesswoman and a stronger person, overall. I find that I use these strengths in other areas of my life.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Dallas is one of the epicenters of success to me. I am from St. Louis and I love my home city, but there is something about this city and its heartbeat that is different than any other area. It’s very “can-do”.The people here are so like-minded and if you meet someone, they can get you to a next level or they can introduce you to someone that can take you to that next level. I love being around people that understand there is enough of everything for us to go around. I think in smaller cities people feel as if they cannot share the secret of their success because they are afraid the next person will outdo them. I do not get that vibe in this city.
Contact Info:
- Address: 8992 Preston Road #2001
Frisco, TX 75034 - Website: www.excelemp.com
- Phone: 469-268-9325
- Email: candice@excelemp.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Excel-Employment-Services-2023674207854448/
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