Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kandace Brigleb, co-founder of Needmore Designs, located in Portland, OR, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Needmore is a design and production studio out of Portland, Oregon. We use an anthropological approach to unearth & articulate what is distinctive about coffee & direct-to-consumer brands.
Tell us about yourself
I have always been interested in storytelling and learning about new people and cultures, which is what led me to studies in anthropology. When we started our business almost twenty years ago, I was fascinated by the Internet and the ability to get a message out to so many people simultaneously. At the same time, I was learning about coffee and became fascinated by this global industry. Each coffee has its own unique story and journey, from the producer to the cup in your hand. Getting to spend my time unearthing these stories and then developing artifacts that share them with the world. This keeps me motivated and interested each day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I'm proud of creating a business that puts people and families first. When I first started my business, I had no sense of personal time. Over the years, it became clear that it was my responsibility to set the tone for our business and how we wanted to treat folks who worked with and for us. I began to put guardrails on my time, creating a strong work/life balance and supporting this in others whenever possible. For example, when we've had employees, we've focused on creating an atmosphere where they also had support for work/life balance, whether it was creating realistic time schedules or taking time off for maternity leave. Or, when we work with clients, we attempt to find out when they are working and respect that time.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Likely one of the hardest (and best) things that come with being a business owner is that you are constantly creating your own destiny. This can be incredibly liberating, but it also can be stressful. The challenge is to believe in yourself and what you are doing and keep moving forward.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Continue to learn and evolve. No matter how long you have been in business, there is always more to learn.
- Listen to those around you. You never know where that incredibly important kernel of wisdom is going to come from.
- Admit when you've made a mistake. Nobody expects you to be perfect, and they'll respect you more in the end for your honesty.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://needmoredesigns.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/needmoredesigns
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/needmoredesigns/
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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