Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in marketing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Haley Davidson, Founder of Gaia Content, located in Alpharetta, GA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I run a content marketing agency called Gaia Content. Our passion is empowering small businesses, coaches, and tech start-ups to make a bigger impact through the power of content marketing. We leverage a range of content, SEO, and social media strategies to boost their visibility, engage existing customers, and sustainably generate highly qualified leads.
Tell us about yourself
I started my career in the NYC tech scene as a content marketing intern. Ever since then, I've loved seeing how SEO and content marketing can drive sustainable growth for companies. I started my company a little over a year ago so that I could make a bigger impact on more clients. Today, I'm honored to work with a range of companies that all have one thing in common: a meaningful mission. We help them grow with content marketing, and I couldn't feel more fulfilled or excited to get to work with them each day. :)
I also recently launched a new side of the business, where I help 9-5ers get started with freelancing. I have a podcast called Disrupt, and it's been so fun to coach and work with passionate people that just need a little help as they get started on their own freelance journeys.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Believing in myself enough to quit my job at 23 and start this business - and generating $100K in revenue in the first year. People called me crazy, but I've seen time and time again that I have value to offer my clients, and seeing their results has been so amazing.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
When I started my business, I had no idea how much internal work would be required to be successful. From setting my prices to pitching larger clients to putting myself out there on the internet - it gave me so much anxiety at first. Over time, practices like meditation, therapy, and a ton of journaling have helped me become the strongest version of myself. But each day still brings a new challenge to overcome, and it can be so hard sometimes — but that's also why I love being an entrepreneur. I wouldn't trade the growth I've experienced in the past year for anything.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Never stop strengthening your mindset. You can learn every marketing and sales strategy in the book, but if you don't work on the internal stuff (mindset), you won't be able to put it into practice.
- Remember that every "failure" is actually a hidden opportunity. In my toughest moments, I've had my biggest successes shortly after because I had to grow and become extremely creative in order to get through it.
- Invest in your community and always grow your network. They will be your strength when times are tough and the unexpected clients you can turn to when you need that extra revenue to meet your goals. Also, other freelancers and business owners aren't your competition: they can become your closest friends and the only people who truly understand what you're going through!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.gaiacontent.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100005436195388
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haleygdavidson/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haleygdavidson/
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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