Ellen Cole of Baldwin & Associates in Mount Pleasant, SC

What aspect of your business are you most passionate about?
I am definitely passionate about helping people. One of the best parts of my job is working with our staff and clients. Getting to know my clients and working one-on-one with them is probably my favorite part of the job, whether it’s working through the intricacies of trust and estate administration or the exciting, heart-stopping moments new businesses go through. I get to have a front row seat to it all. And year after year, seeing projects completed, businesses grow and dreams come true make all the hard work and long hours worth it.
 
What or who inspires you?
It’s hard to pinpoint a single inspiration for what keeps me motivated. I owe a lot of my success in life to my friends and family. My parents, in particular, shared with me their work ethic and the importance of personal connection. My sister also inspires me, as she is one of the bravest people I know and never lets fear of the unknown stop her from moving forward or trying something new. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention my pound puppy, Poppy, who greets each day with a matchless enthusiasm I wish I had, and she never met a ball she doesn’t want to carry.
 
Give us some success tips for someone just starting out in your line of work.
If I could give two pieces of advice and have people really hear me, they would be to be gentle with yourself and to be a sponge. Going into public accounting, and really most any financial services business, is a complex endeavor. Not only are you dealing with demanding deadlines, a constantly evolving regulatory landscape and changing technologies, you’re also dealing with people’s money. I would advise newcomers to take care of themselves first and to always listen to their bodies and minds. It doesn’t do anyone any good to force completion of tasks when you are mentally exhausted, and raising a hand to ask for help is not a sign of weakness or failure.