Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in freelancing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Romer Rivera, Owner of Romerized CAD Drafting and Visualization, located in Winnipeg, MB, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

My business aims to provide architectural drawings or plans for those looking to build or renovate their homes or commercial spaces using computer-aided design software. My client lists range from homeowners and developers to Architectural and Design firms.

Tell us about yourself

I am a graduate of a Bachelor of Science in Architecture in the Philippines. I immigrated to Canada eight years ago to be with my wife and newborn daughter. I worked for a local architectural firm in the city for six years. But, during the first wave of the pandemic and lockdowns started, I lost my job. The uncertainty of those days was horrible. Thankfully my wife kept her job. Still, I knew I needed to do something to help keep our finances afloat, so I tried freelancing online through Upwork. That is how my business started. Through the platform Upwork gives, I can keep doing the job I love and provide for my family.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My business is relatively new and small. I have been operating for only over two years, and I do not have employees yet. Although when I have lots of work, I do hire other freelancers to help me out. At this stage, I guess the most significant accomplishment yet for my business is keeping clients happy with the quality of work I provide, resulting in having a top-rated plus status in Upwork that represents the top 3% of freelancers in the platform.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

For a beginner like me, I think the hardest thing I had to deal with were bookkeeping and tax filing. It is overwhelming and confusing. I struggled and needed a lot of help, especially the first time.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

I like to address these tips to fellow starters like me and to those thinking of venturing into being new business owners.

  1. There is no perfect time to get started than now! It may sound impulsive, but this is for overthinkers, even after due diligence. Mistakes are inevitable, especially for beginners. But the advantage is you get to move on and learn sooner than you would have, waiting for that perfect timing.
  2. Never quit! I know this has been in every motivational speech and quote out there, and it is for a good reason. Resilience is a common theme among all success stories.
  3. Always express gratitude! Never forget to thank the people who helped you along the way and to pay it forward by helping fellow start-ups get a boost.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I like to take this opportunity to give a shout-out to my former boss, whom I consider a friend and mentor, Architect John van Leeuwen. The six years I have spent working with him have been critical to all the skills I have learned and developed, which have been the same tools I am using with my business.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.romerized.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romerized/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/romer-rivera-4a394a73/

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.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.