Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in advertising services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nina Staer Nathan, Founder of Sunflower Communications, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Sunflower Communications is a boutique communications agency for nonprofits and impact-driven businesses. We specialize in amplifying the impact of purpose-led companies through aligned communications, including social media strategy, content creation, management, and newsletters.
Tell us about yourself
I was working on the communications team for a nonprofit in Guatemala, and I realized that most nonprofit teams are stretched very thin, and each member has to wear many hats. Then, during the pandemic, I started helping some friends with their social media platforms, and it began to take off, so I decided to quit my job and start doing freelance social media. It has evolved since then, and now we are a team of four. We offer 3 core services, and we have a strong client base. I really believe that nonprofits and impact-driven businesses are the solutions for creating positive change in the world, so our mission is to amplify their impact through their communications and provide support to teams that are already stretched thin. I am also committed to creating a positive work environment and an inclusive female team.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Building Sunflower from the ground up with no prior business experience or plan is definitely something that I am proud of. I grew Sunflower from taking whatever job I could get at whatever price to now having a team of 4, clients that are all making a positive impact in the world, getting paid properly for our work, and creating a work schedule for myself and my team that is flexible, productive and brings us all balance and joy.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
As a business owner and entrepreneur, I have a lot of responsibility. I now have 3 team members who rely on me to keep things running smoothly and to keep growing our business to ensure we can all keep our steady income. It can be really scary when a client tells you that they have to cancel their contract because then there is a gaping hole in the company's income.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Go for it - don't spend too much time perfecting each detail or doubting yourself. You learn so much as you go; if you never launch, you'll never grow.
- Get a coach! I got a business coach about 8 months into starting, and it was the best decision I made. It's completely worth the expense because they can help you bring your business and income to the next level quite quickly.
- Don't be too married to your idea. Things can change and evolve so quickly, and if you're not open to change with them, you can easily get stuck doing something that isn't working. Find the essence of what you're passionate about and then be flexible with the way that manifests itself in a service or product.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.sunflower-communications.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sunflowercomms/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunflowercommunications/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunflowercommunications/
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.