Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jacob Slaton, founder of Whatever Media Group, located in North Little Rock, AR, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I run a small creative firm in Arkansas. We do three things, and we do them pretty well. With us, it's all about photography, design, and merch.
Tell us about yourself
I've always been drawn to the creative side of things. I got started in photography in 2009, and since then, we've grown a lot, adding all kinds of creative visual arts to our portfolio. Honestly, the thing that motivates me the most is my steady determination never to have a "real job" again.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest and proudest accomplishment is just being able to make it work sustainably. I know that many small business owners have a hard time keeping the lights on, and I've been really lucky to find some success in a crowded field. That, and being able to go on adventures to the mountains occasionally, makes life pretty excellent.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things for me was just learning all the little tips and tricks on how to do things smoothly and correctly when it comes to the stuff I never wanted to mess with, like paying sales and use taxes, keeping my corporate charter up to date, getting the right commercial insurance, stuff like that. It's not fun, but it's necessary.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't listen to the naysayers. If you've got an idea you can't shake, just try it.
- Don't get down when things aren't going well. It takes time, determination, and continuous hustle to make anything work.
- It really does take money to make money. Don't be afraid to spend a dollar if it will put another dollar back in your pocket later.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.whatevermediagroup.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/what.ever.media/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-slaton-a55bab268/
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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