Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in creative writing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Justin Matott, Author and Publisher at Skoob Books, located in Castle Pines, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a children's book author. My customers are children ages 1-18, parents, grandparents, teachers, schools, bookstores, novelty shops, and anyone interested in humorous literature. I also do many speaking engagements every year pertaining to literacy and anti-bullying.
Tell us about yourself
Adopted by two English Professors, I was encouraged from a very young age to use my gift of communicating stories, jokes, and other things to amuse those around me. When I was in sixth grade, my mother told me I had a gift, but it was necessary to write my stories down and rewrite them until they were perfected. Thanks to my mom, I get to tell stories for a living since 1996. Prior to that, I have a Major Account Executive for a Fortune 500 Telecommunications Giant. My clients always told me my storytelling gift was where they thought my emphasis should be in my career.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Selling over one million books and being able to help shape young minds through my school visits have been some of the most rewarding aspects of a full-time writing and speaking career since 1996.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Constantly marketing in new ways and trying to inspire others to jump on my bandwagon to get my books into as many hands as possible. Being a one-man operation has its plusses and minuses. Getting to be my own boss is one of the best parts of doing what I do every day.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
ALWAYS put the needs of your clientele first. Finding a way to integrate your products or services into their priorities is both gratifying and mutually beneficial. Honesty and integrity win in the long run. Never place your products and/or services with someone who cannot really benefit from them. It will backfire and cause all kinds of problems for both your company as well as give a negative response when they are asked to recommend you. Do everything with your customer in mind. Be sure to always think about what benefits your products and or services will serve for them. In the long run, by doing so, your company and efforts will thrive.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.justinmatott.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MatottBookshop/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matottsbookshop/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/justinmatott
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-matott-32909825/
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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