Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kerstin Martin, Founder of Kerstin Martin Calm Business Educator, located in Lynden, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm a Squarespace Expert and Online Business Educator. Through my self-paced courses, I teach overwhelmed solopreneurs how to feel more confident about using Squarespace while starting, growing, and scaling their online businesses. I am also the creator of the Eule Planner, an analog business planner specifically designed for online entrepreneurs.
Tell us about yourself
I am an accidental entrepreneur! Web design has always been my creative outlet, and when a friend asked me in 2014 to re-redesign her business website, I did so in Squarespace. The launch was a smashing success, and I loved the process, so I decided to turn my passion into a business at last.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Starting my own business in my early 50s and growing it from zero to six figures within four years and sustaining it at that level ever since. I am so chuffed with what I've built and how it's allowed me to not only live life on my terms but also support so many other entrepreneurs on their business journeys.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I am a solopreneur by design, and as a result, I wear a lot of hats: CEO, CFO, maker, customer service, sales + marketing, legal expert, strategist, and visionary. I am pretty good at most of it and even enjoy the variety, but it can also get overwhelming very quickly. What helps is technology and automation, as well as getting support from a VA or bookkeeper, for instance.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Put on your business blinders. Our online world can be very loud and full of shiny new things and noisy hustlers who pull at our attention and make us feel inadequate or like we are always running behind. Add to that the noise from our fears and inner critic, and you have the perfect storm that can leave you feeling rattled, exhausted, and questioning your own path. So put on your blinders and ignore the outer and inner noise! Stay in your lane and focus on your own business, one activity, one decision at a time.
- Do your bookkeeping. Many entrepreneurs skip this step and end up owing taxes, losing money, and feeling out of control. Your balance sheet is a powerful tool that allows you to make good decisions for your business. Starting is as simple as using a spreadsheet, and when you're ready, invest in software like Quickbooks Online, or hire a bookkeeper. Don't ignore this!
- Relationships are more important than numbers. Don't worry so much about the number of subscribers or followers; focus instead on building relationships with your clients, peers, audience, and community. This is not only crucial for long-term sustainability, but it also makes running a business fun and rewarding. You'll be amazed at how many wonderful people and friends you'll meet along the way!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://kerstinmartin.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calmbusiness/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerstinmartin/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerstinmartin/
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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