Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in digital marketing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marshal Simons, Founder & Managing Partner of Impakt Digital, located in Birmingham, MI, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We're a web design and digital marketing agency that's all about helping small businesses reach their online potential. Our customers are small businesses needing web design and digital marketing services. This could include various industries and sectors, such as retail, healthcare, hospitality, professional services, and more. We specialize in helping small businesses that may not have a large marketing budget or in-house digital marketing expertise. Our services are designed to be affordable and effective, and we work closely with our clients to understand their unique needs and goals. Whether it's a small-town coffee shop, a family-owned manufacturing business, or a startup tech company, we're here to help. Our team has experience working with businesses of all sizes and industries, and we're always up for a new challenge. We believe every small business deserves a strong online presence and are here to help make that happen.

Tell us about yourself

I can tell you that I have always had a passion for helping small businesses succeed. I grew up in a small town in Michigan, and I saw firsthand how difficult it could be for local businesses to compete with big corporations. After earning a degree in marketing and working in the industry for several years, I knew that I wanted to do something more. I wanted to create a business that could help small businesses grow and thrive online, and that's how this agency was born.

What motivates me each day is the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of our clients. I love working with small business owners and helping them see the potential that their businesses have online. It's incredibly rewarding to see a business grow and succeed, thanks to the work that we've done together. I'm also motivated by the challenge of staying on top of the latest digital marketing trends and technologies. The digital landscape is always changing, and it's our job to keep up with those changes and adapt our strategies accordingly. It keeps things interesting and ensures that we're always providing the best possible service to our clients. Ultimately, what drives me is the belief that small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities. They provide jobs, support families, and contribute to the local economy. By helping small businesses succeed online, we're helping to strengthen our communities and create a better future for all of us.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

One project that stands out as a particularly significant accomplishment was working with a family-owned manufacturing business that was struggling to compete with larger companies in its industry. We created a comprehensive digital marketing strategy for them that included a new website, search engine optimization, and pay-per-click advertising. Within six months, they saw a significant increase in website traffic, leads, and sales. It was a turning point for their business, and it was incredibly rewarding to see the impact that our work had on their success.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

One of the hardest things about being a business owner is the constant responsibility and pressure that comes with running a successful business. As the owner, the buck stops with me, and I'm ultimately responsible for the success or failure of the business. There are always difficult decisions to be made, whether it's related to finances, staffing, or strategy. And even when things are going well, there's always the pressure to keep growing and improving. Another challenge is finding a healthy work-life balance. As a business owner, it can be easy to fall into the trap of working all the time, especially when the success of the business feels like it's on your shoulders. But it's important to remember that taking care of myself and my personal life is essential to my ability to lead the business effectively. Finally, it can be tough to maintain focus and motivation in the face of setbacks or challenges. Running a business is a marathon, not a sprint, and there are inevitably going to be ups and downs along the way. It's important to stay focused on the bigger picture and keep pushing forward, even when things get tough.

Despite these challenges, being a business owner is incredibly rewarding. It's an opportunity to make a real impact on people's lives and to create something that has the potential to make a positive difference in the world.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Know your audience and focus on meeting their needs: One of the most important things you can do is to understand your audience and what they want or need. Take the time to research your market, identify your target customer, and create products or services that meet their needs. Make sure your messaging and marketing speak directly to your target audience and continue to listen and adapt to their feedback over time.
  2. Build a strong team: No one can do it all alone, and building a strong team is essential to running a successful business. Hire people who are skilled, passionate, and share your vision for the business. Make sure everyone on the team understands their role and responsibilities and that they're committed to working together towards common goals. Invest in training and development to help your team grow and stay motivated.
  3. Be adaptable and willing to pivot: The business landscape is constantly changing, and it's important to be flexible and willing to adapt your strategies as needed. Keep a close eye on your metrics and key performance indicators, and be willing to pivot if something isn't working. Don't be afraid to try new things, and be open to feedback and input from your team, customers, and other stakeholders.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.impaktdigital.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marshalsimons/

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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