Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in web design but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Monica Alejo, Founder of Mpower Ideation, LLC., located in Tinley Park, IL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We empower small businesses and creative entrepreneurs with website and brand designs that aim to propel a business forward. Our clients walk away with a custom website and brand design that delivers functionality and performance and a marketing tool that they can build and grow upon. We also offer graphic design services in magazine design, email design, and digital products.
Tell us about yourself
I got started as a graphic designer working at a small publishing house designing real estate publications. That experience really inspired me to run my own small business someday. Later, when I was working at non-profit and freelancing nights and weekends, my business partner (and husband) and I landed a really great client. That really gave us the push we needed to start our own business. Mpower Ideation was officially founded in 2011 and is run full-time by my business partner. After moonlighting for five years, I quit my day job to fully commit to growing our business. My business mantra is to never hope for it but work for it. My clients and my family need me to deliver excellence every day, and that's what I strive to do.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment was taking a leap of faith by quitting my day job. It was a tough decision to make, but I will never regret it. It has given me more freedom and flexibility to spend time with my family and grow a business that I am proud of.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I am lucky to have my business partner around to remind me that "if running a business was easy, everyone would do it." I love that advice; it centers me when I'm feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Being a business owner, a mom, a wife, and a creative often leaves me feeling drained at the end of the day, and that has been the hardest thing. Finding time for my well-being is always on my shortlist and something we all should do as business owners.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make sure you're ready to commit. Starting a business seems like a fun and trendy thing to do, but it's actually a lot of work. Be ready to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty.
- Enjoy the process! You will learn so much, not just about running a business or your craft, but about yourself.
- Don't let fear hold you back. Make bold decisions strategically, of course, and let others experience the joy of your talents.
- Bonus: Surround yourself with like-minded people, people that inspire you, and people that support your endeavors.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.mpowerideation.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpowerideation/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monalejo17/
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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