Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Indiana Brown, owner of Nihonyaku, located in Albany, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I provide services as a Japanese-to-English translator and online English teacher. As a translator, my customers range from language learning app developers to marketing companies to individuals with personal interests in Japanese source texts. I primarily teach English on iTalki, and I regularly teach dozens of students from all around the world.
Tell us about yourself
I've always been committed to language learning, particularly Japanese. I received my BA in Japanese studies and N1 on the Japanese Language Proficiency Test. Translation was a natural career path choice after graduating, and since then, I have also become interested in the other side of the language learning process - teaching.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Feeling secure and confident in my career path and having the ability to make a steady income doing what I enjoy.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
While being your own boss and having full control over the work you do is freeing and empowering, mastering the self-management skills needed to get there can take some time. It will take some time to get used to being accountable for every aspect of your career, but it's worth it in the end.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Research your field and make informed, thoughtful plans before jumping in.
- Set up concrete and realistic goals for yourself & hold yourself accountable to them (because no one else will).
- Keep meticulous track of your income and expenses. It's easy to believe you're making more money than you are if you're not paying close attention!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://nihonyaku.org/
iTalki: https://teach.italki.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/indianabrown/
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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