Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rachael Boer, Founder of Rachael Boer Education, located in Germantown, TN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Rachael Boer Education. My business is an educational community for photographers, specifically focusing on women who want to improve their photography and business and find more balance in their lives. Most of my customers are entrepreneurs who are building their businesses while also juggling the demands of family, another job, or other stressors. I give them practical help and advice through community groups, courses, workshops, and an online membership called the Women in Focus Photography Academy.
Tell us about yourself
I've been a photographer for 14 years. A while back, I noticed that while most photographers are amazing artists, they really struggle with the business side of things. When it comes to marketing, pricing, sales, and things of that nature, it doesn't come as naturally for them as photography does. So I started creating resources to help photographers thrive in business, leading to where we are today. We have an active monthly membership, a strong online community, standalone courses and templates, and online workshops, all designed to help photographers (primarily women) strengthen their businesses and find the work-life balance that is ideal for them.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Being able to help a photographer go from being unprofitable and struggling to be secure, strong, and confident is always the highlight of my day. I've seen so many amazing transformations like this, and each one is intensely gratifying. I've also been grateful to grow my speaking career. Each year I have opportunities to speak at some of the industry's biggest conferences, sharing what I've learned in my 14 years, and that's very rewarding as well.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Sometimes it can feel like you never fully "clock out." Even on the weekends or on vacation, your mind is always spinning with new ideas. It can be hard to force yourself to rest and step away from the computer when there is always more to do. And as a mom of 4 and a foster mom, I really need to continually strive for a balance between business and personal life. That's a continual challenge that I'm still working on.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Get really, really clear on who you want to serve and exactly how you want to help them.
- Learn to outsource as soon as humanly possible. You shouldn't - and can't - do it all, so the sooner you find help, the better.
- Keep the focus on how you can serve your customers and wow them with an amazing experience. The money will follow.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://rachaelboer.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RachaelBoerEducation
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womeninfocusphotography/
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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