Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in freelancing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Gabrielle Lenart, a copywriter, digital marketing consultant, and content strategist based in New York, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
While my background spans all facets of digital marketing, I love copywriting! I specialize in social media management and ideation as well. My clients range from first-time business owners (teaching businesses the tools they need to succeed on social media) to more established start-ups looking for brand development and ideation (which often asks the question, what is trending currently, and how do I apply that to my niche to succeed!) I have experience with non-profits in the food industry, but I love working with start-ups and CPG!
Tell us about yourself
First and foremost, I am a creative thinker and ideator! I've spent a plethora of time digging into my entrepreneurial mindset. I'm one of the co-founders of Queer Food Foundation, an organization dedicated to being a resource and platform for queer folks in food and, secondarily, to promote, protect, and fund queer food spaces. Additionally, I am a freelancer with over 6+ years of experience in digital marketing and copywriting, with a specialization in social media! I've recently had an uptick in clients and am working to pull together the final branding of my studio! I love working with food and/or food-adjacent projects -- because everyone eats! What motivates me is my unwavering commitment to being a continual learner. If I don't know something, I'll take a class for it. I'm currently learning Spanish!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would say that my biggest accomplishment is client retention and word-of-mouth marketing! Imposter syndrome is real, but every time I see a client satisfied and excited about my work, I know that what I am doing is authentic and inspiring. Some clients I've held for over 2 years, which for contract/freelance is a long time! I also underestimated word of mouth! It's such an amazing tool, and I value my work and what people have to say about it.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Instability and imposter syndrome. It's hard when a project is over, you'll need to pitch for more work, and you're unsure of what the next contract will look like! But I'm a heavy believer in betting on yourself.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- If you don't at first succeed, try, try, try again! I've been freelancing for 6 years, BUT that has come with lots of ups and lots of downs!
- Continually invest in yourself -- I always look for ways to improve and make my skillset more robust, whether that is taking classes/certifications on LinkedIn or broadening my network.
- Rest is important -- this goes hand in hand with knowing when to pivot or throw in the towel. Stick to your values and your authentic self, and the rest will follow.
Where can people find you and your business?
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabriellebakes/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriellelenart/
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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