Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in marketing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jessica Krewson, Founder of designKREW, located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
DesignKREW is not just another branding and marketing agency, it's a team of passionate professionals dedicated to helping small businesses and entrepreneurs achieve their goals and make a positive impact in their communities. Our mission is to empower our clients with the tools and strategies they need to stand out in today's competitive market and to help them build powerful personal brands that resonate with their audience.
Tell us about yourself
Fifteen years ago, my entrepreneurial journey began while working as an art director for a local yoga magazine. My mind was brimming with ideas that I simply couldn't contain any longer, and I made the bold decision to jump ship. I refer to this as my "zero moment," as I had no savings, no clients, and no clear plan of action. Nonetheless, I took a risk and founded DesignKREW. From that moment on, I've been motivated to assist those who help others. Our clientele consists of individuals and businesses that are making a significant impact in their respective industries, including personal development, financial advisement, entertainment, lifestyle, fitness, and beauty. We take pride in supporting these trailblazers and their innovative solutions for their customers and clients.
What drives me each day is the ever-changing landscape of design, branding, and marketing. It's a field that is always evolving, and there are always fresh solutions to be discovered. We believe that even a small business can achieve an enormous reach and impact with our help without the need for excessive advertising spending. It's incredibly rewarding to witness our clients' ideas manifest into tangible, profitable realities.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
As a business owner, my most significant achievement has been multifaceted. Firstly, I have fulfilled my own aspirations and personal objectives of building and expanding my business over the past 15 years. Secondly, I have established an enjoyable work environment and provided employment opportunities to some fantastic individuals with who I genuinely enjoy working alongside every day. And thirdly, I have helped our clients realize their visions, instilling self-assurance in them to share their dreams with others. Many clients approach us with vague ideas, unsure of how to execute them or who their target audience is. It is gratifying to provide clarity, which ultimately boosts their confidence and enables them to pitch, promote, secure investors, and make their businesses profitable. These are the most fulfilling aspects of my daily work.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
​​As a business owner, decision-making and knowing the buck stops with you can be one of the most challenging aspects of the job. Making daily decisions and being confident in those choices, whether or not they work out as expected, can be a challenging experience. I've made plenty of mistakes on my journey, but they have all taught me a great deal. At times, it can feel isolating, especially if you lack the support of fellow business owners who understand the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. To stay motivated, you must stay inspired, and that's something that you have to do for yourself. You must keep your passion and determination alive, even when things get tough, and remain steadfast in your beliefs while ignoring the negative voices around you. It takes a great deal of perseverance and strength of character to maintain your momentum and keep moving forward. Ultimately, you must stay focused on your goals, keep your head held high, and consistently show up and serve your clients to succeed.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
I have a wealth of tips to offer to those who are starting out in business.
- Don't wait until everything is perfect or until you feel completely ready to launch your business or try something new. Just take action and get your ideas out there, even if they're not polished. Being visible and vulnerable will teach you valuable lessons and help you improve as you go along.
- Surround yourself with optimistic, go-getting individuals who share your values. Join mastermind groups and find a mentor who can guide you through the challenges and obstacles you'll face. Having a supportive community or a rock to lean on during tough times can make a significant difference and keep you ahead of the game.
- Seek out support in areas where you lack expertise or strength. From the start, I hired a bookkeeper and an accountant, even though I didn't have the revenue to afford it yet. Recognize your weaknesses and fill in those gaps with support from others who excel in those areas. Don't be afraid to seek help right from the beginning because it will save you time, money, energy, and stress in the long run.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.designkrew.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designKREW/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designkrew/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/designkrew/
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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