Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in freelancing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amy Turner, Founder of Bocwine Consulting, located in Gilbertsville, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I run a freelancing business that focuses on writing, editing, beta reading, and some technical consulting. I've worked with everyone from independent and aspiring authors all the way up to small publishing companies and a watch company.
I am also working to turn my personal branding passion project into a small business. Called The Bookish Historian, I'm looking into expanding into some minor affiliate marketing through Bookshop.org, selling merchandise like stickers, and even starting a subscription box service later in 2023. It's still in the early stages right now, but it's an exciting prospect!
Tell us about yourself
I first got started with freelancing while working at an accounting company. A trainer we had hired for some professional development came up to me and asked me for some assistance with updating his website, and it kind of went from there! Once our business relationship started, I decided to move forward with starting a sole proprietorship, and I've been slowly growing ever since.
I'm highly motivated by the kinds of people I get to work with, especially authors. I love being able to help them shape their stories and encourage their growth. I'm so inspired by reading their stories, and it turns, helps my own writing.
I also love that I get to pick and choose the types of jobs I work on. The variety is fun and prevents me from being bored!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
To be honest, my biggest accomplishment has been meeting one of my clients in person. I started working with this client a year or so ago, and his business is located in Boston. I was in Boston for a work conference and was able to set aside some time to meet him. Given that most of my communication with clients is virtual, it was really special to meet someone face-to-face and get to know my client, as well as get feedback about I've been able to help the company.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Imposter syndrome is one of the hardest things I've had to come to terms with. The freelancing space is tight and competitive, and it can be hard to win business, especially if you are on a freelancing platform like I am. I often contend with feelings of doubt and knowing that someone else out there does the job better than I do.
On the other hand, I've been slowly but surely able to work past that. I've had a couple of authors come back to me to beta read their most recent stories, and it's so exciting to think that I've made such an impression they'd want to work with me again. It's reaffirmed that while there may be competition, I also still have a lot to offer current and prospective clients.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Take your time - It will take some time to get your business off the ground. And that's okay! Success doesn't (usually) happen overnight. It takes work and effort to get the momentum going, but when it does, it's a feeling like no other!
- It's okay to say no - It's okay to say no if you don't want to take on a client or commit to an obligation if you're tired, want to take a step back, feels that your skills don't match what they're looking for, or any other reason. Overloading yourself will only hurt you and your client, and you won't be able to bring your best self to the table. It's okay to take some time for yourself.
- Don't stop learning - I learn something new almost every day, both in my regular job and in my freelancing role. Each client has something new to offer, and each opportunity allows you to grow as a business owner. Don't ever take learning for granted!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://amyturner.org/
Website (The Bookish Historian): https://thebookishhistorian.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_bookish_historian/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/a_williams06
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amywilliams06/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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