Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in graphic design but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Melina Kaufman, Owner of Spotlight Graphic Design, located in Jupiter, FL, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I am the owner of Spotlight Graphic Design. We are entering our 13th year of business and offer logo design, print design, and Squarespace website design to small and midsize businesses, primarily in South Florida.

Tell us about yourself

I was always into drawing and crafts as a child but was urged by my practical parents to major in business in college, so I chose to focus on marketing. A few years after graduating, I was hired as an account manager at a local advertising firm, where I learned so much. I discovered graphic design there after playing around with Photoshop when the art department was backed up. I loved it and decided to take online classes to learn how to be a graphic designer and then started Spotlight Graphic Design.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I am really proud that I have built this business from nothing into a six-figure business. I am one of the few people I know who truly loves my job! I also love that I am setting a great example for my two daughters (ages 11 and 7) by showing them that with hard work, they can accomplish their dreams.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Since COVID, I see a lot fewer clients face-to-face, so it can be isolating. I am alone in a room with my computer most of the time. I am making more of an effort to meet with other local female business owners to see how we can support each other.

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

  1. Identify your strengths and learn how to leverage them in a meaningful way to help others. Everyone has unique traits and skills that can be useful to others. Figure out how to build a business around what makes you unique.
  2. Be willing to adapt. The world and technology are always changing, and it's important to put the time in to learn the latest software and apps in your industry. See what your competitors are doing, and don't be afraid to let go of services that aren't working and add new ones when there is an opportunity.
  3. Focus on great communication. When I answer my phone, people are often shocked they are talking to a real person instead of being sent to a call center or a voicemail. I always answer my emails the same day and try to answer my own phone when possible. Customer service is undervalued by a lot of businesses.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.spotlightgraphicdesign.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightGraphicDesign
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melina-kaufman-19a09b20/

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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