Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Shannon Nicholson, Founder of THR33 Marketing, located in Chicago, IL, USA.

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

THR33 Marketing is a boutique digital marketing agency representing brands throughout the service industry. Our clients are new brands or established brands seeking growth or awareness. We also work with brands looking to reinvent or refresh their current identity.

Tell us about yourself

As a creative and thriving within changing environments, I have worked in various roles for or alongside many entrepreneurs and startup businesses. My experience has provided me insight into all different aspects of a business and the challenges new or small business owners undertake. When I hear impactful ideas from individuals who want to generate positive change, I naturally want to help developing businesses grow these ideas and bring them to fruition.

After listing the challenges…

It takes time to design a business, build a brand, organize all of the models and tools for use along the way- all against time restrictions, limited resources, and a very tight budget.

I realized how I could help. To break down each of these barriers, I created THR33 Marketing and developed a one-of-a-kind cost mod

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is seeing our clients’ branding take flight after they’ve worked with us.

For instance, at a recent book launch for one of our clients that I attended, the branding that I had produced was all throughout- not just digitally on social media, but in the tangible 3D. From gift bags to presentation backdrops, to the front cover of the book! The fit of the brand to the business was apparent in every corner- from the services offered to the style of the leadership team. Brand recognition from attendees came through discussion and compliments.

The pride that swells each time we meet the mark never gets old!

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

One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is time. For any person to own a business, means to manage it day-to-day. It’s like working a double full-time job! 16-hour days, six to seven days a week, at times. The to-do list is pages and pages long, and time is of the essence. Time is money, I have learned that! Time is money…

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

My top three tips for anyone looking to start a business are:

1) Go where your passion leads you.

You always hear “Do what you’re good at.” Rather, follow your passion. you will be immersed in your business 24/7, you have to love it. It has to serve a purpose for you.

2) Get comfortable being uncomfortable.

Owning a business means that for some stretch of time, you are their business and therefore you do all things. You will have to push yourself to work out of your comfort zone every single day- whether that be asking for referrals, learning a new skill, or determining the price value of your work. You will be uncomfortable the majority of the time for a long time. The beauty is, you will grow, undoubtedly.

3) Lastly, utilize digital marketing.

Digital marketing is one of every business owner's most available and impactful resources. From potential customers, building brand awareness, sharing the positive reputation of your brand, and more! It is the number one tool that delivers the most business back to your company- when used correctly.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://thr33marketing.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/THR33marketing/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thr33marketing/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thr33marketing/

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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