Check Out Deborah Crowley’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Deborah Crowley

Hi Deborah, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Early Beginnings:
I was born and raised in New Jersey, where my journey truly began. From a young age, I was drawn to the fashion industry, starting my modeling career at the age of 12. Over the next two decades, I graced the runways of numerous designers and was featured in various magazines and in Teen Magazine. This experience not only honed my skills in the fashion world but also instilled in me a deep understanding of professionalism and the importance of presentation.

Transition to Business:
While my modeling career was thriving there was still something missing, I felt a calling to explore new avenues. My corporate journey began with roles at renowned organizations such as McDonald’s Corporation, Easter Seals, Rutgers University, and Xerox Corporation. These positions allowed me to develop a diverse skill set in administration, customer service, and leadership. My time at Xerox, in particular, was pivotal, as it gave me extensive experience in managing teams, coordinating projects, and engaging in community outreach. I donated over $100,000 to various charities. However, I became so stressed out where I made a decision to one day get up and walk around and look at everyone on onboarded in the company. I went back to my desk and begin to plan my exit. I was beyond stressed out, and I had to speak to a therapist as life was overwhelming at that time. It was time for me follow my dream to become an entrepreneur.

Entrepreneurial Ventures:
Driven by a passion for entrepreneurship, I founded Exclusive Cleaning Services in 2015. This venture was inspired by a desire to create job opportunities and provide exceptional cleaning services. Under my leadership, the company has grown significantly, earning a reputation for excellence and reliability in the cleaning industry. Alongside this, I established the Exclusive Elderly Resource Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for seniors officially opening on March 9, 2024. This initiative provides a range of services, from health and wellness programs to daily living assistance, making a meaningful impact on our elderly community.

Ladies of Justice and Mentorship:
In addition to my business ventures, I serve as an Ambassador and Director for Ladies of Justice, promoting equal justice and providing affordable legal resources and identity theft protection. This role allows me to empower individuals and support community well-being. Mentorship has also been a cornerstone of my journey. I actively mentor young people, helping them navigate their personal and professional paths and providing guidance based on my experiences.

Recent Projects and Future Aspirations:
Recently, I’ve co-authored two books, “Define Feminine” and “Joy 365,” and launched a podcast, “Women in the New Norm,” to inspire and empower others. Looking ahead, I aim to expand our services at the Exclusive Elderly Resource Center and continue creating opportunities for growth and development in our community. As I journeyed through being a co-author my dream was always to be on a billboard in Time Square in New York and it happened. However, featuring our book “Joy 365”. The last couple of years has been a spiritual growth year for me. My future aspirations include opening a home for pregnant teens to provide life skills and educational programs, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive.

My journey has been one of resilience, continuous learning, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact. From my early days in fashion to my current roles as a business leader and mentor, each step has shaped me into the person I am today. I look forward to continuing this journey and creating lasting change in the lives of those I serve.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey has been far from smooth, marked by numerous challenges and obstacles. However, each struggle has shaped me into the resilient and determined person I am today.

Domestic Violence and Single Motherhood:
One of the most significant challenges I faced was dealing with domestic violence while trying to raise my two sons, as a single mother. The trauma of domestic violence was not only physically and emotionally exhausting but also a constant battle to protect my children and provide them with a sense of security. Navigating the complexities of single motherhood meant juggling multiple responsibilities, from ensuring my sons had everything they needed to working tirelessly to support them financially and emotionally. These experiences taught me the importance of resilience and the strength that comes from fighting for a better future for my family.

Challenges as a Black Woman in Leadership:
As a Black woman in leadership, especially in predominantly male and sometimes unwelcoming environments, I have faced significant challenges. Often, I encountered male counterparts who disapproved of my leadership or underestimated my capabilities. This lack of support and respect could have been discouraging, but it only fueled my determination to prove them wrong. I had to work twice as hard to earn the same level of recognition and respect, constantly proving my worth and demonstrating my expertise.

Personal Tragedy and Reflection:
A deeply personal and painful chapter in my life was the loss of my father, who was tragically gunned down in 1961, shot 22 times in a case of mistaken identity. This horrific event left a lasting impact on me, shaping my understanding of injustice and the need for systemic change. The memory of my father’s death became even more poignant during the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, serving as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice. This movement reignited my commitment to advocacy and reinforced the importance of using my platform to effect change.

Struggles Along the Way:

Bias and Discrimination: Dealing with bias and discrimination, both overt and subtle, was a constant hurdle. From being overlooked for opportunities to facing microaggressions in the workplace, these experiences were disheartening but also motivating. I learned to navigate these situations with grace and assertiveness, ensuring that my voice was heard and my contributions were recognized.
Balancing Multiple Roles: Balancing my roles as a mother, entrepreneur, and leader was often overwhelming. There were times when the pressure seemed insurmountable, and the fear of failing in one area loomed large. However, I learned to prioritize, delegate, and seek support when needed, recognizing that I didn’t have to do it all alone.
Maintaining Mental Health: Ensuring my mental health and well-being was another significant challenge. The stress of managing personal and professional responsibilities could take a toll. I made it a priority to engage in self-care, seek therapy when necessary, and surround myself with a supportive network of friends and mentors who could offer guidance and encouragement.
Despite these struggles, I have emerged stronger and more determined. The road has been anything but smooth, but every challenge has been an opportunity for growth and learning. My experiences have not only shaped my character but also fueled my passion for empowering others, particularly women and minorities facing similar obstacles. Today, I am proud of the journey I have traveled and remain committed to making a positive impact in my community and beyond.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m Deborah Crowley, and my journey has been a tapestry of resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. As the founder and CEO of Exclusive Cleaning Services, I’ve dedicated the past 17 years to building a company that not only provides exceptional cleaning services but also positively impacts the lives of our employees and clients.

Exclusive Cleaning Services:
At Exclusive Cleaning Services, we specialize in residential and commercial cleaning, offering the latest techniques and utilizing eco-friendly products to ensure top-notch service. What sets us apart is our relentless focus on quality and customer satisfaction. We’ve built a reputation for reliability and excellence, and we take pride in delivering more than we promise.

Pride and Achievements:
I am incredibly proud of the community we’ve built within our company. Over the years, we’ve hired over 200 employees, each bringing their unique personalities and talents to the team. Managing such a diverse workforce has been both a challenge and a rewarding experience. It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about creating a supportive environment where our employees can thrive. We prioritize training and development, ensuring that everyone feels valued and empowered to deliver their best.

Struggles and Resilience:
Being a business owner comes with its share of struggles. One of the most significant challenges has been balancing the demand for customer satisfaction with managing the diverse personalities within our team. Ensuring consistent, high-quality service requires not just technical skills but also emotional intelligence and strong leadership.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges. We continued to operate, recognizing the importance of our services in maintaining safe and clean environments. However, this period was marked by immense personal and professional hardship. Many of our employees and their families were directly affected by the virus, and we faced the heart-wrenching reality of losing loved ones. Despite these difficulties, we remained committed to supporting our team, providing them with the financial stability and strength they needed during these uncertain times.

Balancing Roles:
As a business owner, maintaining my household while being the financial backbone for my employees has been a daunting task. The pressure of ensuring everyone’s well-being, from my family (who do not live in my former state) to my employees, required immense dedication and resilience. I’ve learned the importance of self-care and seeking support, recognizing that I can’t pour from an empty cup. I moved to Michigan with 2 suit cases and my sons, and the journey has been truly undescribable grossing a million dollars.

What Sets Us Apart:
What truly sets us apart is our commitment to our people. We’re not just a cleaning company; we’re a family. We invest in our employees’ growth, provide a supportive work environment, and strive to make a positive impact on their lives. Our partnership with “Cleaning for a Reason,” providing free cleanings for cancer patients, reflects our dedication to giving back to the community.

Future Aspirations:
Looking ahead, I’m excited about expanding our services and continuing to innovate in the cleaning industry. I’m also passionate about mentoring the next generation of leaders, particularly women and minorities, helping them navigate their paths with confidence and determination.

In summary, my journey in becoming a “Business Strategist is one of perseverance, community, and unwavering commitment to excellence. I’m proud of what I have achieved and look forward to continuing to make a difference, one clean space at a time, and one small business moving forward.

We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Risk-taking has been an intrinsic part of my journey as a business owner and leader. When you’re at the helm of a company, especially one like Exclusive Cleaning Services, the stakes are high, and every decision carries weight. I believe that taking calculated risks is essential for growth and survival, even though it often involves stepping into the unknown.

Financial Risks and Uncertainty:
One of the most significant risks I’ve taken was deciding to keep our business open during periods of financial uncertainty. There were times when receivables didn’t come in fast enough to cover payroll. I remember vividly when our bank account was down to $2,465, and I was praying for a check to clear in time to pay our employees. The fear of not knowing where the next meal would come from was real, but my commitment to my team’s well-being kept me going. I prioritized paying my employees over my own financial security, understanding that their livelihood depended on our business.

Employee Quality and Commitment:
Finding quality employees has always been a challenge. There were instances where the shortage of dedicated and skilled workers added to the pressure. Yet, I stayed in faith, believing that the right people would come and that we would make it through tough times together. The risk of investing time and resources into hiring and training, without immediate guarantees of their performance, was a leap of faith. But it was a necessary one to ensure the longevity and quality of our services.

Pandemic Challenges:
The COVID-19 pandemic was another period of immense risk and uncertainty. Deciding to stay operational while ensuring the safety of our employees and clients was a significant risk. The emotional and physical toll of seeing employees and their families affected by the virus was heart-wrenching. Yet, we pushed through, understanding the critical role our services played in maintaining safe environments during such a crucial time. It was lonely!!!

Relocating for Business:
A personal and professional risk that significantly impacted my journey was the decision to relocate from my hometown to a state where I had no family members or established support system. Moving away from the familiar and stepping into a completely new environment required immense courage and faith. This decision was driven by the potential for business growth and new opportunities, but it also meant leaving behind my comfort zone and the support network I had always relied on. The experience taught me the importance of adaptability and reinforced my belief in the power of taking bold steps towards achieving your goals.

Balancing Acts:
As a single mother and the financial backbone of my household and business, the risk was not just professional but deeply personal. Balancing my responsibilities at home with the demands of running a business required immense faith and resilience. The risk of financial instability, combined with the emotional burden of ensuring my family’s and employees’ well-being, was overwhelming at times. But it also reinforced my belief in the power of perseverance and the importance of maintaining a strong support network.

Perspective on Risk:
I view risk-taking as an essential component of leadership and growth. It’s about making informed decisions while trusting in your abilities and the strength of your team. Risk involves uncertainty, but it also brings opportunities for innovation and progress. My perspective on risk is rooted in faith and resilience. It’s about staying true to your vision, even when the path is unclear, and believing that every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://iamdeborahcrowley.mystrikingly.com
• Instagram: @dcrowley39
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crowleydeborah/
• Other: https://dcrowley39.ladiesofjustice.com