Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in marketing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alex Johnson, Founder of Pacific Northwest Web Works, located in Woodland, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I run a web design agency based in the Pacific Northwest. I aim to help small businesses in small towns get a website they can be proud to share. One that reduces stress and saves the business owner time while being affordable. Every business needs a website to grow. I make the process easy for busy business owners.
Tell us about yourself
I started with web design back in high school on basic (early 2000's) websites. But it was never a skill I thought about pursuing until after I married my wife. Her business needed a website, so I launched into figuring that out. Soon it became my favorite type of work, even better than doing computer repair work that I was before. Eventually, I dropped everything else to focus on designing and helping other small business owners. I enjoy helping other small business owners who have to claw their way in the world to grow as we have.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
After 12+ years of being in business, I still get a kick out of seeing my designs live. I love getting feedback from my clients on how successful the new site was at helping them grow. Every new site is a challenge, and it's exciting to launch them and see the changes happen.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
There is never enough time to accomplish everything. One minute you are busy with client tasks, and the next, you are trying to get your next marketing or social post done. It is hard not to start working 24/7 and keep life balanced with family and other things.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First, I would say set the fears and negatives aside. There will always be doubts in your mind and the minds of others. Ignore that little fear and push through. You can do amazing things.
The second would be to start with a plan. Track your results. Optimize what you can. Don't put the plan you make in stone, but you must set goals. If you don't set goals and stick to them, you won't get anywhere.
Lastly, I would say that anyone looking to open a business or grow their current one should learn to embrace change. The world changes so fast. What worked yesterday might not work today. If you are so stuck in your ways that you never change, you will be left behind.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Even if you can't afford to hire someone to create a website for your small business, take the time to put energy into it. Things are becoming more and more connected to the web by the day. And if 2020 has taught business owners anything, it's that you need a backup plan. A well-optimized site is a great start for that. If nothing else, keep the information on your website up to date.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.pnwwebworks.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pnwwebworks/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pnwwebworks/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pnwwebworks
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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