Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Charles Bovaird, Owner of Bovaird Consulting, located in Boston, MA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a writer and editor. My clients include publications and institutions. I write for Forbes and Business Insider, for example. I have also worked for financial services firms such as State Street Bank, Moody's Analytics, and Citizens Commercial Banking.
I have developed a wide range of content types, including news articles, evergreen pieces, white papers, and tools used for financial literacy. While I have done a lot of financial writing, I have also written about other subjects, for example creating articles for nonprofit organizations like Shriners International, which raises money to support Shriners Children's, which has hospitals and other facilities that provide care to children regardless of the financial circumstances of their families.
Previously, I also wrote some articles for my old Boy Scout troop, which is Troop 114, in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. Further, I am interested in branching out into other subjects. I have long been an advocate of using meditation, and I would like to write more about topics like that.
Tell us about yourself
I started my current business over a decade ago when I started doing freelance writing assignments. As for what motivates me each day, I am a huge fan of knowledge, and I enjoy developing content that can help educate people so they can make better-informed decisions. I also like the independence and freedom of expression that comes along with being a writer.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have published over 500 articles on the Forbes website.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
If you become an entrepreneur, the odds are against you. Roughly 20% of small businesses fail in their first year, and by the end of five years, that figure increases to 50%, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data reported by Nerdwallet's Fundera.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
For starters, aspiring entrepreneurs should focus on doing something that makes them feel passionate. Second, they should thoroughly research their target market. Finally, they should develop a sound marketing plan so they can generate revenue. An entrepreneur could have the best product or service in the world, but if they can't sell it, they will have a hard time keeping the lights on.
Where can people find you and your business?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charleslbovaird
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CharlesLBovaird
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesbovaird/
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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