Turn Online Followers Into Real-world Customers - Small Studio
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ashton Henry, Founder, and CEO of Small Studio, located in Milwaukee, WI, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I run a Branding and Social Media agency. We work with entrepreneurs who are just starting out all the way to businesses that have been around for years. We love working with a wide range of industries and have a lot of success working with the service-based business. We have recently launched The Social Club for solopreneurs just starting out - this is a customized content calendar and Canva templates to help take the guesswork out of how to sell your business on social media!
Tell us about yourself
I love working with business owners, learning their goals and vision for the business, and supporting them in helping their business grow - making those dreams a reality. My team and I are fueled by seeing the success of our clients.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have scaled my business to the point of needing a team! I have two full-time employees and four contractors we work closely with. Managing a team is hard, but I love seeing the ideas and friendships that have grown as a result of working with more people. It's really rewarding to see each team member enhance the roles that they are in and the way they each bring so much energy and joy to their work. It is nice not to be alone in growing the business.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Turning it off. I am always thinking about the business! I feel like I should always be working on things, and my to-do list is never-ending. I have to remind myself to take breaks, spend time with family, and make sure to take care of myself. It is a really stressful role to be in, but it's my own created stress, so I love it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Figure out your why, and don't forget it. On the hard days, it is always good to go back and reference this; it will refuel you when you're feelin' low, it will energize you when you're exhausted, and it will make those good days even more rewarding.
- Figure out some sort of self-care routine. You are your business - especially in the beginning when it literally is JUST YOU. Don't forget to take time to take care of yourself. When you're at your best, it makes room for your business to be the best it can be too.
- Take time for fun! Chances are you got into entrepreneurship because you were craving freedom. Freedom of time, money, or the opportunity to do things your way. Make time to celebrate even the small wins, and don't get so consumed in the day-to-day that you forget! Having fun and turning off your business brain is often when your creative ideas will have room to grow!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.hellosmallstudio.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallstudiobrandshop/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashtonanmarie/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashtonhenry/
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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