Inspiring Conversations with Annette Shtivelband of Research Evaluation Consulting

Over time, I was able to figure out what seemed to work for REC. I have found that our firm can make the most impact when we are working with clients who are at a crossroads; ones that need data to make strategic decisions, value data analytics and statistics, or are passionate about what they do and want to work with us to improve their services. Some of our clients had never worked with an evaluator before. We’ve tried to build the evaluation capacity of every client we’ve worked with, and it’s a success when people can do some of their own evaluation, independent of working with an evaluation firm.

As a business owner, you’re responsible for everything. If there was a misunderstanding or disconnect in communication, sometimes having those conversations can be challenging. I think it’s important to stay true to what your own vision is for your organization, but also to be open to feedback from the people around you, because you can’t run a business by yourself. You have to take into account all of the people that are directly impacted by your services. There are far fewer female entrepreneurs out there and I’m proud to be one of them. For me, the important thing is to get back up again, even if you fall. If you have a hard day, it’s important to be resilient, and keep moving forward. Despite the challenges, I am proud to have created a team of people who have similar values, goals, and standards, and have created something bigger than myself.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Research Evaluation Consulting LLC (REC) is a woman-owned Colorado-based consulting firm that delivers quality research and evaluation services to nonprofit organizations, the private sector, universities, government and educational agencies. REC provides clients with a variety of professional and customized services that facilitate, strengthen, and promote effective organizational practices. We represent an integrated team of research and evaluation professionals who focus on helping organizations achieve optimum results through collaboration, innovation, and strategy. REC is a people-centered, results-driven consulting firm that works with our clients to deliver results you can trust. REC works with our clients to thoroughly, objectively, and accurately measure and quantify impact. We bring our expertise in research and evaluation methods and encourage our clients to bring their subject matter expertise to the project. This collaborative approach allows us to support our clients’ continuous learning and identify areas for growth. We are committed to cultivating strong client relationships based on integrity, commitment, and a shared project vision.

Have you had mentors, supporters, cheerleaders, advocates, clients or teammates that have played a big role in your success or the success of the business? If so –who are they and what role did they plan / how did they help.
Without a doubt, I don’t think that REC could be as successful as it has been without the support of all the employees and contractors who have been there as we work on so many different projects. We’ve built strong relationships and trust; we support each other and share similar values. When things are hard, those relationships keep me moving forward. It’s interesting – first, it was just me starting a company, and then it was growing the team, and then it has been seeing the directions we want to go. I’m also very thankful for the clients we’ve had who have put trust in us and given us the chance to help their organization. For us, we love to support and cheer for our clients. We’re happy when we discover that the support has made a real difference. We’ve also formed some partnerships with other consultants. This gives us new opportunities to collaborate and expand the clientele we work with.

Outside of REC and our clients, I have some stellar friends who have been there for me. It’s good to have a sounding board as you start a company up and navigate different decisions, and figure out your vision for the future. My family and my partner have also been so supportive. It’s been very helpful to have people who believes in me. My partner also helps me put time and energy into other parts of my life as well, to have fun, travel, and connect. That’s helpful for balancing the responsibilities of owning my business. I’m grateful to have so many people who are there for me and there for REC. And finally, I want to recognize the mentor who supported me as I pursued my doctorate. He really seemed to value my thoughts and ideas. He was kind and he listened. He also was honest with me and helped me learn how to deal with the inevitable challenges that life presents. He advocated for me, he encouraged me to fight for what I wanted regardless of the challenges, and he was there with me throughout the whole process. Now, as I manage my own team, I try to bring similar energy and support. When I serve our clients, I advocate for them. If one of my team members is going through a hard time, I support them. I find great meaning in what the REC team is able to accomplish together and in partnership with our clients. I know how important it is to be there for others and how such support can make all the difference.

Contact Info:

• Website: researchevaluationconsulting.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/researchevaluationconsulting/
• Email: [email protected]