Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stacia Crawford, Founder and President of Stay Ready Media, located in Chicago, IL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is media strategy. I help authors, entrepreneurs, experts, and industry leaders gain visibility through TV, radio, and magazine interviews.
Tell us about yourself
I got started in TV as a news producer. During my 33 years in television, I booked thousands of guests on TV, but I found there were countless others who missed opportunities because they didn't know how to share their stories in a way that was attractive to a journalist. I started doing public relations on the side, helping small business owners get media coverage.
As a producer, I was also getting hundreds of pitches from PR professionals who wanted to get coverage for their clients, but they didn't know how to draft a winning pitch. I began offering a service in which I helped PR pros improve their pitching techniques as well. I also train experts to deliver memorable interviews and leverage their media coverage in a way that pays off for years to come.
I believe that everyone has a story that makes them stand out. Telling that story in a meaningful way helps them to connect with others. It's this priceless skill that impacts people and helps bring about positive change in the world.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment has been building my business to 6-figures, allowing me to quit my full-time job and focus on helping others achieve their dreams and make maximum impact in the world.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things about being a business owner is remaining in your own zone of genius. In this day and age, more and more people are starting a business. And with so many online social media channels, it's easy to get distracted. You might see others bragging about their success, and you get tempted to try something new. You think what's working for them will work for you. But you have to trust yourself and trust your own process, even through challenging times. You have to trust that it's all working, even when you make mistakes. Sure, there may be others who do what you do, but you have to know that you bring a unique set of skills and experiences to the table that no one else can match. Stay true to the gifts God gave you, and it will all work out fine.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make sure you have at least three months of expenses saved up before you start. There will be ups and down before you start earning consistent income. Be prepared for that, so you won't panic when your bank account gets low.
- Focus on one offer and one result for your customers. Don't try to solve every problem for everyone. Start small and perfect your processes before trying to scale.
- Get into a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. You will need support when you face challenges in your business. Hire a mentor who can offer guidance when you need it. Entrepreneurship can be a bumpy road. Don't feel as though you have to make that journey alone.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://stayreadymedia.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stayreadymedia/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/stayreadymedia
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacia-crawford-813697a/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/stacia.crawford.39
https://www.facebook.com/stayreadymedia
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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