Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Luke Johnson, Founder of Codigo Web Works, located in Moose Jaw, SK, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a user experience consultant and web developer with 12 years of experience helping small to mid-sized non-profit organizations and businesses to make the most of their digital services. I create custom website systems, web apps and help my clients to chart out the design of new digital services.
Tell us about yourself
I'm a teacher at heart, and I could see that many organizations were having difficulty adapting to the prominence of digital. I wanted to help them form better digital strategies and to provide better web-based tools so that they would waste less time and effort. I have often functioned as a "digital shepherd," helping in-house teams to learn what they need to learn in order to communicate well online and engage their audiences meaningfully.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Developing sturdy processes that allow me to help my clients effectively. As a digital professional, I can't possibly have all the answers. But having good processes means that I know how to arrive at answers that enable my clients to succeed.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Managing all sides of the business. Some parts of running a business come more naturally to me. I struggle at times to give my own marketing the attention it needs.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Dedicate a good amount of time each week to work on your business. Serving clients comes naturally, but the only one who can grow your business is you.
- Find good people to talk to. Building a business is hard work, and you will have a lot of difficult choices to make. Having good people in your corner makes a huge difference. Invest in a business coach. Talk to a counselor. Prioritize your own development as a business owner.
- As Queen Elizabeth often advised her Governor Generals, "Be gentle with yourself." You're a human, not a robot. You can't expect 100% productivity every day. Do what you can, and then take a break to replenish yourself.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
There is room in the market for everyone. The most important thing is to know how you want to help people and who you want to serve. As Seth Godin writes, find the smallest possible audience, and serve them with everything you've got. If you can turn your clients into advocates, you'll have a much easier time growing your business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://codigo.ca/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lukenjohnson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-n-johnson/
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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