Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Thomas Strider, a Business Coach & Content Writer based in Birmingham, AL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I offer business coaching services to early and mid-level freelancers and content creators. There is a heavy emphasis on personal branding, content creation, and business operations. I view myself as the ultimate accountability partner. I provide lessons, training, and hands-on feedback for all of your digital business needs. That being said, no amount of lessons or training can replace good old-fashioned hard work. My ultimate goal is to guide my clients until they're set to grow and thrive in their business with no outside help.
Tell us about yourself
I spent 7 years working as a small business strategy consultant, both as a freelancer and in the corporate finance world. I have also obtained my MBA with a specialization in data analytics, as well as have a burning passion for branding and marketing principles. I shifted to working in this business by taking those years of experience and applying it to the creator economy. The world is full of talented individuals with stories worth sharing. I love helping them find their voice online and guiding them in running a successful digital business they can be proud to call their own. My big goal is to help my clients unlock a life they love waking up to each and every day, whether they are working that day or not.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
At this point in my career, I've consulted and coached hundreds of new creators and small business founders. My greatest accomplishment has a near-perfect score in regard to both customer service feedback and business growth. There is no better accomplishment than happy clients.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Time management is a huge struggle for most business owners, especially so for solo founders. You are running everything from marketing, sales, operations, finance, and anything else you can think about. Tasks quickly add up, and burnout feels unpreventable for many. For this reason, my coaching program includes plenty of material and training that guide newer owners to operate more efficiently and prioritize tasks more effectively.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Think long-term. Overnight successes are a myth. In order to build a strong brand, trust, and real relationships, understanding this takes time.
- Do not overspend your money early on. Focus on the core essentials of business first and start generating revenue before spending big. This will keep you out of debt and your business in a financially healthy state.
- Don't chase money alone. This is a quick trip to burning out and giving up. Start a business behind a passion or huge interest that aligns with your skill set. In the rough times (and believe me, your business will hit rough times), it's the "why" behind your business that will keep you going.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.thomaskstrider.com/coaching
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomaskstrider/
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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