Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Terra L. Fletcher, Founder of Fletcher Consulting, located in Shawano, WI, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I’m a Fractional CMO for companies that don’t need a full-time Chief Marketing Officer. I make companies look good. I help them be visible where they need to be visible and help them create the content and systems they need to walk their customers from their first meeting through the sales funnel.

I specialize in manufacturers going through mergers and acquisitions. My biggest client right now is a family of foundries. I help each company they acquire to fit into the family aesthetically with their branding. Usually, I overhaul their website, rewrite their brand identity guide, and update printed collateral. In addition, I write and distribute press releases and oversee all external communications.

Tell us about yourself

Entrepreneurship and writing are core parts of my identity. I started my business when I saw a need I could fill in the market. In 2007, I launched my company, providing website content and social media management. I got into social media marketing on the ground floor and became a go-to resource. I’ve been asked to speak on marketing and communications along the way. Teaching, facilitating workshops and speaking as a keynoter fuel me.

I have always loved marketing and advertising. So I study everything I can to understand why people buy the things they do. I believe that we should learn something new every day. This curiosity keeps my marketing fresh and helps me stay on trend.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I work with great people and speak at stellar national events. Yet, I started my business to have more time with my family. I’m proud to work mostly from home. I helped my son start his first business at 13. Knowing he’ll have a headstart in whatever professional endeavor he pursues is the best reward.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

The rough stuff at the beginning. People think they can start a business today and make a good income in a month or two. That’s not usually how it works. It took a few years before I was well-established. All that stress and financial insecurity take a toll.

Today, I have the financial freedom to volunteer and be with my family. But when you’re starting, and you’re so broke for so long, it’s hard. Sticking with it, being disciplined, and managing your time are real struggles.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

I’ve outlined more than three in my book, “Flex the Freelance: An Unconventional Guide to Quit Your Day Job.” I’d have to say my best takeaways would be:

  1. For those starting a business, act like it’s a business. Be a professional. Make the choices professionals make but let your personality shine through. Your quirks might be the best part of your business. Define your unconventional brand personality and let it dictate all your communication decisions.
  2. Have a solid business plan. It doesn’t have to be a 20-page document, but do get your big goals in writing. How will you know if you’ve achieved them if you don’t record anything?
  3. To grow your business, push past plateaus. It’s easy to get complacent when you’re not as hungry as you once were. Instead, proactively seek feedback from someone you trust. Keep setting ambitious personal and company goals. Then write a plan to hit them.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.fletcherconsulting.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fletcherconsulting
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TerraLFletcher
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terralfletcher/

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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