Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in marketing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mary Cate Spires, Partner and Consultant of HarleyJames Consulting, located in Cayce, SC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are an inbound marketing agency servicing mid-market companies. We also specialize in the aging services industry.
Tell us about yourself
I got started in digital marketing when I was a freshman in college. I was lucky enough to meet a mentor who introduced me to HubSpot. From there, I got loads of certifications and kept learning the tool. When I graduated, because of that knowledge, I became an inbound marketing manager for a startup in NYC. From there, I worked at SmartBug Media, the number one HubSpot Partner agency. When I left there, I went full-time into my own business, helping companies with digital marketing. A year ago, I wrote a book on the subject, started professionally speaking, and started HarleyJames Consulting with a business partner. I also own Reputation Avenue and do digital marketing consulting.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been seeing my clients thrive. I take great pride in my clients finding success, and it is what keeps me going.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest thing has been being a self-starter and relying on myself to get things done. If I don't do it - no one else is going to!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Start networking. The more people you know and who know what you do, the more likely you are to get referrals. Referrals have been the most significant factor in growing my company.
- Be ready to hustle. It isn't easy to own a business, but if you go into it knowing you will have to work hard - it makes it much more manageable.
- Find an excellent accountant. Taxes and finances are complex when you are growing a business. Someone you can trust to give you good advice will go an incredibly long way.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.harleyjamesconsulting.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marycatespires
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marycatespires/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/marycatespires
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marycatespires/
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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