Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in freelancing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nico Torres Santana, Owner and Director of NTS Media, located in Riverview, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Primarily, a video producer and digital marketer. These services have narrowed to creating digital content for social channels to influence and drive brand awareness or direct sales. For the last two years, I've focused on working with small and large businesses alike, from dental offices to big tech companies like Dell (the computer manufacturer).
Tell us about yourself
I started learning about marketing and content creation when I began producing music at the age of 16. Without a label, I had to learn everything myself. Eventually, these skills would open doors in other ways, initially through marketing for the PGA and then through having my own client base as a vendor. I love the challenge of creating something from just a random idea and communicating products or services in ways that are authentic to the brand while keeping the consumer's voice at the forefront. I love what I do, and so getting a chance to do that while making a living off of it is an accomplishment in and of itself.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Going from surviving to thriving as a business owner is not an easy feat. I'm somewhere in the middle, but seeing the long-term version has definitely helped me chart a proper path. It's easy to get wrapped in the line of thinking of maximizing today's profits, but as a business owner, profit is one component. Keeping a long-term relationship with great clients, serving their needs, and helping them accomplish their dreams is, in my opinion, the highest level of achievement.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Uncertainty, I take it one day at a time because I realize business is not forever. With marketing, specifically, you're always at risk of getting cut loose, especially with a downturn in the economy. Being conservative with my business finances and keeping my operation lean, all while trying to grow, is challenging. But ultimately, that's what makes owning a business an adventure.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Just start. And start small. The greatest teacher will be the experience you gain by just doing the work. From there, talk to other business owners and learn from people one to two steps ahead of you. It can be tempting to emulate business owners who are way ahead but taking it one step at a time, one day at a time, increases your probability of success.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.ntsmedia.co/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicosantana.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicosantana.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicktorressantana/
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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