Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in music education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Matthew Warnock, Owner of Matt Warnock Guitar, located in Sault Ste. Marie, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Matt Warnock Guitar helps guitarists of all backgrounds and experience levels learn and enjoy playing jazz guitar. Players from all over the world and all ages have learned from MWG since the site launched in 2011.
Tell us about yourself
I moved to Brazil from the US in 2011 and had some extra time on my hands. I wanted to create a website that provided guitarists with easy-to-understand and accurate information on how to play jazz guitar. For the last 11 years, I've worked every day to further that goal, to get as many people across the globe playing and having fun with jazz guitar as possible.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
When a guitarist comes to me who doesn't believe that they'll ever be able to play jazz, they don't have the talent, or it's just too complicated, and within a few minutes, they're improvising over a jazz progression and having fun being creative on their instrument.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Probably having to lay people off when times are slow. It's fun to hire people and expand, but there are also times when things contract and layoffs are necessary. Never gets easy.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
I would say that sticking with it is number one. Times are tough right now in the creator community, and the people who stick out the tough times will thrive long term. I'd also say that it's helpful to see other creators in your space as collaborators rather than competitors. And, lastly, to find ways to have fun with your business. Yes, it's work, and it still should be enjoyable, or you won't stick with it.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.mwgcourses.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MWGCourses
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matt_warnock_guitar/
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3s7mOBn
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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