Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in advertising services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rob Sanders, Founder of RSO Consulting, located in San Francisco, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
RSO is a digital marketing agency focused on data-driven results leveraging various analytical tools and resources. So, at the core, we are an analytics company working across multiple industries and verticals, including law, education, real estate, technology, retail, and more.
Tell us about yourself
I have always had a diverse background in all things related to the Internet. However, the "digital marketing" part of my experience started in 2000 at the Sports Basement in San Francisco, where I was able to hone my skills in SEO and PPC. The experience grew with digital marketing stints at Gap Online and Charles Schwab before taking on Coleman.com under the brand RSO in 2006. Other verticals and industries quickly followed suit. I liked the quick growth, primarily in customer service and passion.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Being able to build a global team that works well together, all the while managing clients around the globe. I have taken my dream of living in Spain full time and complimented my 'digital nomad' lifestyle with a team of like-minded individuals. That is the reward on top of the dream!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
When a client no longer wants to work with RSO for whatever reason (budgetary, new management, etc.), it still feels like a punch in the gut because I know we did the job well and can continue to do the job well. I realize there are always going to be forces outside my control, but it still stings because we work so hard to get the client and keep the client happy.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- You can't run any business, regardless of location, size, or industry, if you don't have the passion. In other words, passion does not equal millions of dollars. Passion equals wanting to be great at something you enjoy on a daily basis.
- Surround yourself with a solid team or people you trust. You can't take on everything by yourself, especially when starting out. Even if you can't afford to pay people, you can still set up an advisory board, reach out to mentors or seek counsel from trusted colleagues and friends. The early stages of building a brand and company are vital to later success. So, don't try and tackle it alone. I certainly learned this the hard way!
- Separate yourself from everyone else. When I started RSO in 2006, I felt there were not a lot of agencies doing what I did. That changed quickly, and I quickly realized that I needed to stand out from the pack. Having a good story or mission statement is a good start. But when speaking with prospective clients, you will have to make it clear your unique identity in order to have a chance at the business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.rso-consulting.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RSOConsulting
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rso_consulting
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rsoconsulting/
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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