We had the good fortune of connecting with Suzanne Sarsfield Scarano and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Suzanne, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
As a successful Vice President of a local advertising agency, at the age of 37, I was happy and enjoying the Miami single life. I felt fulfilled in my career because of my passion for communication and marketing. However, the inefficiencies of the traditional advertising agency methods were frustrating. With the advances in technologies, I felt there was a better way to approach creative, align teams, and live with life/career balance. Since I couldn’t find it, I created it.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Forethought provides communication solutions to encourage progress. The business’ competitive advantage lies with its three “uniques.” First, is ensuring our clients are heard by conducting MAGIC Sessions™ to align leadership and C-suite level teams. Next, we save time by organizing communication projects and providing required, regularly scheduled meetings run on a cloud-based agenda which can be accessed at all times. Finally, Forethought ensures budgets are maximized by utilizing tailor-made compensation agreements.
I am most proud of having been prepared for what no one expected – 2020. When Forethought was first established in 2009, I embraced technology and established a 100% virtual company. We only targeted clients in three industries: Healthcare, Education and Financial Services. These industries were selected because they were not volatile and because I felt these are basic and beneficial needs for people – health, education, and financial stability.
As the events of 2020 unfolded, Forethought couldn’t have been better prepared. We did not need to pivot because we already worked from home and our clients were all essential industries with a tremendous need for communication.
At the beginning of 2021, a conscious decision was made to grow the business and I am excited about the future.
When I first launched Forethought, the idea was a small and profitable business. I expected to provide consulting services and keep a handful of partners that I would support with specifically determined services. As clients’ needs evolved, so did Forethought, and growth was inevitable. Now in our 14th year in business, there are 12 team members providing services to clients and we have doubled revenue from 2022 to 2023.
Have there been growing pains? Sure. The last two years have provided the opportunity to learn and experience what works, what doesn’t and most importantly, what we truly want.
The greatest lessons:
1) Have core values and live by them, in all that you do
2) Ensure your leadership team is working on the business, not in the business
3) Make sure your entire team is aligned with your core values and trust your team.
4) Think about the future often, be prepared for the unexpected
5) Have fun!
I’d like the world to know that because I couldn’t find the business approach I wanted for my career, I went out and created it. It has been wonderful for me, and the byproduct is that I have now created an amazing place for others to do what they love in a way that fits their lives, not rules them. As a result, our clients shine. Forethought’s core values are: 1. Respect one another. 2. Be you. 3. Love what you do, do what you love. and 4. Have fun every day.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I feel every visitor must experience the Everglades and the best way to do that is to take a tram tour at Everglades National Park. Additionally, head down to Biscayne National Park and do the boat tour out to the lighthouse. If you can’t tell by now, I’m a nature girl, so I also enjoy events and installations at Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens, again, the tram tour is informative and interesting. It is Miami after all, so make sure to go to South Beach at least one day on the trip and in the summer the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables is a MUST. As a member of the PAMM, I urge visitors to check out the exhibitions and check out the unique installations. Speaking of art, Wynwood Walls and the entire area is delightful and fun. For me, it’s nice to visit Little Havana – Domino Park.
Dining in Miami is amazing. For your traditional Cuban meal, Versailles is the way to go. For a sexy and extravagant experience, visit Dirty French on Brickell, if you seek a yummy Italian low-key experience, make a reservation at Fratellino on Miracle Mile. For a scrumptious breakfast with options for everyone in a happy environment, I enjoy Pura Vida.
For dining experiences there is nothing I enjoy more than sitting in a 1930 style house patio enjoying perfectly prepared Greek/Turkish meals at Mandolin Agean Bistro. To sit and enjoy the view of the water and be close to the Downtown area, and know that you will have a quality meal, Il Gabbiano is a great option. For a party ambiance and a party for your taste buds, don’t miss 1-800-LUCKY a food hall of Asian inspired eateries.
If you can find Suénalo playing live, get yourself there. An 8- piece, Miami-based, Afro-Latin-Funk jam band with a unique sound that you can’t help but to dance. Other places I like to have fun are at Blackbird Ordinary, Puttshak, The Warf, and Ball & Chain.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Oh wow, where to begin? There are so many, amazing people who have been great influences in my life.
First, Anne Louise “Missy” Carricarte. Anne Louise has been my soul catalyst and inspiration since 2009. Her techniques are easy to incorporate into every moment of everyday life. These techniques are powerful tools that have supported me in creating desired life experiences and outcomes. Her book Power Wishing provides formulas to awaken your best emotional self to support your wellbeing and confidently master your emotions.
Of course, my husband, Michael Scarano. Michael’s unending support of my wildest ideas and love for me is an energizing fuel that encourages me to continually be my best self. And, we have a blast together.
Gerardo Escalona, the Forethought EOS Implementor has not only trained the team and me on the tools for business traction but has been a loyal and caring friend.
Website: www.forethoughtmarketing.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forethoughtmarketing/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-sarsfield-scarano-8a68794/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=forethought%20marketing