Thrive and Grow - Art Machine Productions
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tim Pangburn, owner of Art Machine Productions Inc., located in Philadelphia, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Art Machine Productions is a high-end tattoo studio that caters to all walks of life. Our clients are artists, young professionals, middle-aged mothers, and absolutely everything in between. We work with doctors, lawyers, business owners, and anyone else you can think of. We maintain a relaxed atmosphere that’s a far cry from a stereotypical tattoo studio and focus on artistry and client comfort.
Tell us about yourself
My love of tattoos goes back to childhood and seeing the old sailor tattoos my great grandfather had. Once I got my first tattoo, I knew that it was the career path I needed to take. Ownership was a goal from day one. The desire to learn and grow keeps me invested in what I do. The fact that there is constant, fierce competition at my doorstep pushes me to work harder than others. My belief is that even if someone can out-skill me, they’ll never outwork me, so I’ll always have the edge.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think one of the greatest things I’ve done as an owner has been to help launch solid careers for nearly two dozen artists. I helped mold the Philadelphia tattoo scene by bringing greater diversity and more talent to the city.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
What I struggle with the most is parting ways with co-workers. Tattooing is a very close-knit and intimate industry, and the relationships you build can become very personal. Sometimes it can hurt to see people go.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Work harder than everyone. Hard work is what separates failure and success.
- Employees are more important than customers. Unhappy employees drive away customers. Happy employees create loyal customers.
- Be innovative. Think outside the box. Experiment. Try different things. Some won’t work, some will, but either way, you learn ways to help your business grow and thrive.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
When it comes to setting goals for your business, don’t be patient. Aggressively pursue what you want. There is always another person or another company driving to be the best, and inaction will cause you to be left behind. Be fierce in the pursuit of your greatness and your success.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.artmachineproductions.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timpangburnart
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timpangburnomg/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/timpangburn
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-pangburn-793a06141/
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.
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