Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in digital marketing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marnie Ochs-Raleigh, CEO and Client Champion of Evolve Systems, located in St. Paul, MN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Evolve Systems is a full-service digital, creative, and technology agency that is driven by the passion for evolving our clients' businesses. Our suite of digital services, including branding, website development, and marketing, is developed using data-informed and business-specific strategies to provide a return on time.
Tell us about yourself
I'm a sixth-generation entrepreneur. When my husband and I were given a choice to move to New York with three small kids, we decided it was time we started our own business; finding the work-life balance we desired to have was critical for our family values. Each day I have the opportunity to inspire and motivate my team makes me excited! Our team is comprised of a group of "evolvers" that bring their dedication and passion to our clients each day; when we deliver work that provides ROI for our clients and makes a positive difference, we celebrate! The World needs more passion, and this is how we can make a difference in our community and all our lives.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Celebrating our 20th Anniversary was a lovely milestone to achieve. We have the opportunity to work with fabulous business owners who receive positive ROI; watching their bottom line improve is what drives our team to bring our passion to every program we deliver.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
It's difficult to turn off your brain and not work on the business 24-7. Find ways to unplug and take clarity breaks. Creating time to document the process, refine the process, and then follow the process. Sometimes it may feel easier to take a shortcut, but in the long run, they always take so much longer than if you would have simply followed the proven process.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Start with an end goal in mind, so each decision you make adds value to the company's worth.
- Get a mentor or join a CEO roundtable. Your friends and family simply cannot offer the support you will need with tough decision-making.
- The numbers don't lie. If you don't know how or understand the data your organization grows on, learn how ASAP. Learn how to make decisions based on numbers rather than emotions
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://evolve-systems.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evolvesystems
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evolvesystemsagenc
Twitter: https://twitter.com/EvolveSystemsUS
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolve-systems/
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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