Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in marketing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sabrina Espinal, Founder of Sabrina&Company Social Marketing, located in New York, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Hi, I'm Sabrina from Sabrina&Company Social Marketing. My company exists to help small businesses and successful single entrepreneurs with their online presence. This is done by creating and posting their social media content, engaging with their followers, and building community. People don't have time to do all that is needed for their social media, but we do!
Tell us about yourself
I came from a corporate background in tech and human resources. I had an amazing career, but over time I knew I wanted to move into something more creative, like Marketing. When social media launched for businesses, I was ready to make that move, but no one wanted to give a Human Resources Director a chance. So, in 2009, I took my career into my own hands and decided to start my own business doing this new thing called "social media." I started with small local restaurants where I dined. And now, over ten years later, I'm still madly in love with social media, my business, creative content, and community building. I even run a small Facebook group to share the latest about social media and enjoying personal self-care.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is really a series of great ah-ha moments.
- Helping clients build their business from the beginning to the boom.
- Writing content for clients that makes their personal brand and business stand out – year after year.
- Having the thrill of working with amazing local and international brands…and meeting famous musicians and artists!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Honestly, I think one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is isolation. Yes, you are online with others, and you enjoy your business, but the need for human connection is very natural and important. Working in coffee shops and co-working spaces is good but seeking out real human contact is vital for feeling good. It's also important to find real friends online that are also single business owners. It will ease your isolation, and it's great to talk with others who speak the single business owner language!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First, if leaving a full-time job with benefits, take time to research how you will have health benefits as a single entrepreneur. This is very important and often taken for granted. There are many health care options, from freelance unions, going on a partner's healthcare, to local health plans.
Second, find training that will introduce you to all the little things about running your business. Make ongoing training a monthly habit. There are so many options for seminars, workshops, online classes, and more.
Third, just start! Be confident. Don't work for free. Don't barter yourself and your services. If you offer a discount, only do it for two months. Your business is not a hobby; charge what you're worth.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Finding your passion and pursuing your dream never has an ending destination. You may eliminate one part of your business and then add something new. This is perfectly normal. I started my business without a plan, a website, any business cards, or a business name. I only had a desire and a dream. I literally went to local places that knew me and asked if I could do their social media. You can do it!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://sabrinacompany.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sabrinacompany
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabrinaespinal/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SabrinaCompany
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinaespinal/
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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