Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amanda Nicholson, Email Marketing Strategist and Web Copywriter located in Nashville, TN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is Amanda Nicholson, Copywriter. I am a copywriter for mission-driven entrepreneurs and non-profit organizations. I am passionate about writing impactful words for people who are committed to making a positive change through what they offer.
Tell us about yourself
I was a Kindergarten through second-grade special education teacher for three years. While on maternity leave, I realized that we could not be financially stable if I returned to teaching and my second job because of the high cost of childcare on top of all the other essential expenses. I started Googling things like "How to make money on maternity leave" and came across an ad for a copywriting course. I remember a friend had mentioned copywriting to me to make money from home. I'd always dreamed of being a writer, so I dove in.
Becoming a copywriter was purely accidental, but also one of the best things that could have come about for my family and my career path. I enjoy writing. I have flexibility in my schedule and income potential. I am privileged to connect with amazing organizations and entrepreneurs who are a light to their communities.
I am motivated to do this work simply by the sheer joy of doing something I love. My business is a vehicle to provide an excellent life for my daughter and show her that if I am capable of doing this, then she can do anything she sets her mind to.
But the motivation doesn't stop there. The same passion for providing access and equity to students that I had as a special ed teacher followed me to my new career as a writer. I choose to work with people and non-profits that are creating a more equitable, accessible, and impactful community. My mission is to make their mission possible through the words I write for them- overall, using my work to create a better world for the short time we have here on earth.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment in business so far is taking the leap. I was an emotional, post-partum mess when I was deciding if I was going to return to 60+ hour work weeks as a teacher (and another job) and give my daughter my leftovers or if I was going to use this time as an opportunity to create something else for myself and my family. Hearing my clients praise the work I've done for them and seeing financial and analytical results roll in proves that I can do something I enjoy while making the world a little bit brighter. I've established that I can do this with a vision that only progresses.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest thing about being a business owner is being solo. One person cannot wear all of the hats and do all of the tasks well. I am learning to give myself grace in this and re-prioritizing to figure out what I can outsource and what will lighten my load while doing quality work and bringing results to my clients.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Take Nike's advice and just do it. Just start. Nothing has to be perfect. You will learn and pivot along the way. Messy action is better than no action- especially when it comes to building something that will allow you to live the lifestyle of your dreams while making a bigger impact.
- Find a community. You can only go so far on your own. Finding a community, whether virtual or in-person, will keep your mindset elevated and open you up to so many business opportunities.
- Build relationships (also see #2). I have developed relationships with so many amazing people who have referred me to dream clients, become business friends, and are cheerleaders in the work I am doing. Those relationships are priceless!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://successful-inventor-104.ck.page/profile
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alncopywriter/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-nicholson-20a23a225/
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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