Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Susan Nelson Spencer, Founder of Sandbox Learning Experience Design, located in San Clemente, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Sandbox Learning Experience Design develops online learning experiences that help people in organizations learn. We create engaging and accessible online courses for companies who want to impart behavior change in their organizations.
Tell us about yourself
I had a successful career in the fashion industry as a retail buyer, merchandiser, and corporate trainer. After the birth of my second child, I pivoted to fashion education to spend more time with my family. Through this experience, I discovered my love for designing online courses. Upon further research, I learned that I could make a living designing online courses not just for the college I was teaching at but also for companies. I figured I needed some formal education in the field, so I went back to school to get my master's degree in instructional design. I was working as a freelance instructional designer before I even finished my degree.
I love my new career path and owning my own company. What motivates me every day is the fact that I am helping other people to learn. It's like being in the classroom but from behind the scenes. I create courses that all different levels of employees take in all different types of organizations. I take pride in the fact that my work may inspire corporate employees to learn something new or take on a new challenge in their workplace.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I started my company primarily working for other learning agencies as a sub-contractor. Last year, I had my first direct client, a not-for-profit leadership organization. This year, I won a direct contract with one of the largest digital advertising agencies in the world. I'm pretty proud about that - especially since they were a referral!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Most people would say it's finding clients. I've been willing to work on various types of contracts and with a variety of organizations, so I've not had any downtime in the two years I've been in business for myself. What is really the hardest thing for me is knowing that YOU have to get it right for the client there's no one to guide you. That said, it can sometimes be daunting to think that an entire organization is relying on your work. But at the same time, that's also really motivating to me - to feel needed.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Network. Even if it's online in a Slack community you barely participate in; you'll be exposed to new ideas and practices to keep your trade fresh.
- Spread the karma. When I transitioned into instructional design, several people from the college I was teaching at approached me for help. I've given them advice and even passed on job leads to these folks. Helping others succeed makes you feel good - and makes the world better.
- Spend minimally. While it's tempting to look for office space or attend an expensive conference - don't. Save your pennies in the beginning so that you have a nest egg to fall back on should you need it when things get slow.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.susannelsonspencer.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susannelsonspencerlearningdesigner/
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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