Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Robin Canfield, Founder of RCanfield Design, located in San Diego, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
As a graphic and web designer, I call myself a "one-stop-design-shop." I specialize in small businesses and focus on female and minority-owned businesses as well as non-profits. I love working with startups and re-brands. I offer deliverables from websites to print to digital advertising to social media content. I'm passionate about my work, and my favorite projects are those working with people who feel the same!
Tell us about yourself
I have been a musician and visual artist most of my life, so after getting my Master's in International Business, it was pretty natural to take a design focus when I began freelancing. I am motivated by helping small businesses achieve their goals and dreams. It is so rewarding to see the joy I can bring people when I help them bring forth an idea into reality.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Surviving two economic downturns, a pandemic, and more and still coming out on top and smiling.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
While I wish I could be designing all the time, I do have to devote a decent chunk of time to pitching and getting new clients and projects. If I didn't have to do that, I would have zero complaints about my job!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be patient. Even if you think you are already a patient person, starting a business will require more than you expect.
- Don't be too hard on yourself. This is not to say you shouldn't hold yourself to a high standard - but don't beat yourself up on lost contracts or mistakes. Learn and move on.
- Find work-life balance! This is crucial. It's so easy to pour yourself into your business and lose all sight of other things. Be sure to make time for family, hobbies, and doing nothing at all. It might seem counterintuitive, but in the end, this will keep you from burnout and make you more successful.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.rcanfield.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foreverramblingaround/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/aquirkydesigner
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robincanfield/
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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