Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Laura Darkstar, founder of Adminderella, located in Austin, TX, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Business Operations Strategies and Systems. I work with solopreneurs, creatives, and small business owners by communicating and implementing an organization's strategy internally and externally through community management, digital marketing, HR management, online event management, project management & coordination, launch management, and team coordination & management.

Tell us about yourself

I worked in Corporate America in Office Manager roles for 25+ years. After a number of downsizing incidents (because Admin folks are usually the first cuts), I decided I was not an expendable commodity and took the leap into self-employment.

Seeing my clients grow and shine is my motivation. I love working with solopreneurs and creatives because it drives me to stay in touch with my creative side.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Finally, realizing that I really wanted to add working with creatives (musicians, artists, etc.) to my marketing messaging and really commit to working in that space.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Not having people who understand running a business to talk to and bounce around ideas with. You can talk to friends and family about your business, but they don't really understand how much of your heart and soul you pour into it.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Do Your Research - Just because you have a computer and an internet connection does NOT mean you have what it takes to start and run a business. There are legal considerations, financial considerations, and so many things that people don't realize they need to have in place to be successful.
  2. Processes and Systems should be in place before you begin. Have a documented client onboarding system, don't just make it up as you go along. Have documented processes and systems for how you will deliver your services. Not having repeatable systems wastes time and resources. You can always customize if you need to but have your core systems in place.
  3. Craft your "elevator pitch" and really have it down. Being able to tell people what you do in a concise, understandable way is invaluable.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I love seeing creatives having more platforms these days and that solopreneurs are becoming more accepted. It's less about competition and more about collaboration which is a win-win for everyone.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://adminderella.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Adminderella/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauradarkstar/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lauradarkstar
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauradarkstar/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.