Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in publication but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lisa Dailey, owner of Sidekick Press, located in Bellingham, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Sidekick Press is a hybrid publishing company dedicated to guiding authors through their publishing journey. We partner with authors to develop and promote their big idea. Our team works to create an exceptional book and design a custom-built strategy to ensure its success in the market. We work with authors through every phase (editing, production, marketing, and promotion.)
Our publishing model is uniquely positioned to offer the benefits of both traditional and self-publishing. We provide publishing services to authors to keep creative control, intellectual property, and royalties.
Tell us about yourself
I have been involved in some form of publishing and technology for nearly 30 years, and I'm also a writer. After a seven-month sabbatical from my career in which I traveled, wrote and sought publication for my book, I gained some perspective on the complexity of the publishing industry as well as my own set of skills. I realized that I was in a unique position to help others navigate their publishing journeys. This includes not only helping with publishing but also teaching skills when it comes to technology as well as platform building.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment in terms of my businesses is the lasting partnerships I've fostered with my clients. Our relationship doesn't end when a project is over. My clients know that when they run into any technology problem, I am here to help them solve it.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Not having anyone else to rely on. When you're on your own in business, there is no one else to help share the workload or take over when you need a break. Vacations are few and far between, and complete time off is unheard of. Even when I do manage to travel, my computer is always nearby, just in case. I also believe that not working in an office as part of a team has killed some of the collective collaboration that is often present in a shared work environment.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Research your prospective industry and define what you bring to the table that is unique.
- Keep track of your time and hire help when the workload becomes too much for you.
- Be open and honest in all your relationships.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.sidekickpress.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sidekickpress/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sidekickpress/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-dailey-a485738/
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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