Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jennifer Robb, owner of different companies such as Simple Organizing Strategies, Iowa Professional Organizers, and Om Home Yoga School based in Iowa, USA.

Tell us all about your business...

Through transitions of life and in times of crisis, don't agonize...organize. Professional Organizing and Consulting for time and space. Yoga and Meditation for mind and body.

What's your background and motivation to grow as a business owner?

The organization has always come naturally. I was seeking flexibility with my time, having two small children at home, I was inspired to own my own business helping other people get organized by doing what I love. Simple Organizing Strategies was formed in 2004, and that is where my entrepreneurial path began. From there, Iowa Professional Organizers grew out of necessity. They allowed me to welcome and teach new organizers how to start and grow their businesses by networking, resources, and referral groups to our members. Since 2006, IPO has grown from 6 excellent organizing professionals across the state to 26 members strong! Knowing there was more to organizing than just tidying up space and managing time.

I began integrating holistic health ideas into organizing routines. In 2017 I became a certified yoga instructor and added organization for the mind, body, and spirit via yoga and meditation into containing routines. I created Om Home Yoga School in 2020 and currently offer 200hour teacher training and private and group yoga and meditation sessions. Every day starts with the positive intention of creating balance for myself and others, consulting with peers (aka, cheerleading for friends and colleagues), practicing mindful movement through yoga, meditating, and creating routines of health and balance. I couldn't love my jobs more!

As an entrepreneur, what does success ultimately mean to you

Being able to adapt through changing and challenging times and find the balance necessary to raise my daughters while providing for our family.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being an entrepreneur?

Lack of guarantees/stability: unlike the traditional 40hr/week job, there are no paid holidays, employer-matched 401k's, spent vacation days, or sick days. You have to be very conscious of your health and well-being, so you can physically work. Health care costs, supply costs, and other variables can be unpredictable and volatile, so as a business owner, you must be able to adapt and be creative and efficient with your time and resources.

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

  1. Life experience is just as important as education. If you've been thinking of jumping in or getting started, but you are afraid you need more training or certifications first.... do it. Just jump in. You know more than you think you do. Doubt your doubts and let your passionate authenticity shine!
  2. Promote yourself/your business. Live your passion. Tell your friends, your family, your hairdresser, your realtor, banker, mechanic, your gym friends, and anyone with who you come in contact with what you do. Sell yourself, knowing that the goods or services you offer make the world better. Believe in what you do and share that gift. It's not bragging; it's educating and letting people know you're out there, you're doing it, and you're available for hire! Offer continuing education, talks, or workshops locally to spread the word in your community.
  3. Post fliers, hand out business cards, and make yourself seen. The most prominent rate of return for my organizing business has been vinyl stickers on my vehicle windows. As I drive around town running errands for organizing clients all day, people take notice. Also, place logo stickers on your water bottle, laptop, or cell phone case, and wear branded clothing with your business logo when possible. Have magnets made for clients to put on the fridge, so they always have your number, and they see your cute face every time they open the refrigerator door! When people visit your logo, they should think of you and be encouraged to let others know about you. Word of mouth advertising is enormous.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Consumers are desperate for authentic people who are passionate about and good at what they do. Become an expert in your field, as well as a resource for those you offer goods or services to. Support other local entrepreneurs and build up your community. The seeds you plant today will come around and around for years when you make good contacts and treat them well along the way in return.

Where can people find you online?

Websites:
https://www.sosorganizer.com/
http://www.iowaprofessionalorganizers.com/
https://www.omhomeyogaschool.com/
https://tinyurl.com/2xet5e8c

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/sosorganizers
https://www.facebook.com/iowaprofessionalorganizers
https://www.facebook.com/omhomeyogaschool/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/organizerjenn/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/msjennrobb/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as an entrepreneur or business coach 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.