Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in human resources but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Catherine Lang-Cline, Co-Founder of Portfolio Creative, located in Columbus, OH, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Portfolio Creative is an award-winning recruiting company founded in 2005 by marketing people for marketing people. Our clients are typically mid to large-sized businesses, but it can be anyone with a need in marketing. Our clients are also the talent we find, ranging from the very experienced to the person looking for their first job in marketing.
Tell us about yourself
Kristen Harris and I both worked in marketing roles for years before starting Portfolio Creative. I had a lot more experience in the freelance world but combined with Kristen's experience in hiring for marketing positions; we saw a need in the market for someone to help connect the two. This company allows us to stay very close to what we have always loved doing by using our talents by creating brilliant marketing teams that work with other companies in the region.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
It would be difficult to choose one accomplishment as the biggest but connecting the right people ranks very high because that is what we initially set out to do. Because of this work, we have created jobs in the region, which means that people can make a living, pay their mortgages, feed their families, etc. And at the same time, companies get access to the amazing talent that allows them to be successful and grow.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is seeing the potential in others that they cannot see in themselves. This includes the people that we hire to work with us as well as a lot of the talent that comes to us looking for work. Sometimes it is convincing clients of the potential that we see in the people that we are recruiting for them. Sometimes it is the potential we see in our clients themselves.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
In starting a business, we always recommend getting the workbook "Six Week Startup" because it is a step-by-step guide on how to do it. Be open to knowing that you don't know everything because every day, you are problem-solving and learning, and if that is not your bag, then this is not the job for you. Also, find your tribe of fellow business owners. They are the only people that can relate to what you are going through. They can help you with issues because they have probably survived something similar, as well as help you with ideas for growth in a way that you would like to do it.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.portfoliocreative.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PortfolioCreative/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/portfolio.creative/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinelangcline/
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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