Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in consultancy but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mary Beth Solomon, Owner of Solomon Solutions, located in Jersey City, NJ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Solomon Solutions provides a suite of qualitative research services online and in person. We help you maximize return on investment by helping you to understand your customers' perspectives, behaviors, and brand interactions and the way they intersect with technology. Solomon Solutions works with Fortune-class companies on a B2B and B2C level, specializing in online research in multiple industries, including the financial, healthcare, retail, and technology sectors.
Tell us about yourself
I was a forerunner in online qualitative research. I completed a graduate degree and a masters in Developmental Psychology from Columbia University's Teachers College, after which I began working in advertising at TBWA/Chiat/Day in 1993. From there, my career evolved toward market research and a variety of qualitative solutions. From the mid-1990s through 2001, I worked within a market research and data mining company. In 2002 I set out on my own with my consultancy. My research approach has always been adaptive, collaborative, and organic. With a graduate degree in Psychology from Columbia University's Teachers College, I bring an academic curiosity to every project.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been keeping the business alive and well for two decades. I continue to love every project I encounter.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Working as a sole proprietor, wearing all hats, and managing all aspects of the business alone can be challenging, but it has been an education, and it makes collaboration with colleagues even better when such opportunities arise.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Stay engaged with the industry, attend events and conferences, and maintain a strong network of colleagues within your area.
- During downtimes, when business ebbs rather than flows, use the time to build your business in other ways -- such as writing a newsletter, creating a presentation, publishing an article, or researching a new sector you'd like to work in.
- Consider partnerships and collaborations. It makes getting through lean times a little easier.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://solomon-solutions.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SolomonSolutionsResearch/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/solomonsol
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-beth-solomon-602b8017/
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.