Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in advertising services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kristina Kury, Founder of Sprout Creative LA, located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We work with small business owners who are busy running their businesses, are overwhelmed with marketing, and whose growth has plateaued to turn their marketing into a manageable, automated, and stress-free marketing machine. Working with us, we create a no-fail roadmap that points the way to worry-free growth so you can get marketing off your plate, continue growing your business and bring your passion to a wider audience. We specialize in heart-centered entrepreneurs but can help a wide range of business owners who either want marketing coaching or hate marketing and want someone to do it for them.
Tell us about yourself
Marketing wasn't my first career choice, but it was always a passion of mine that I naturally gravitated towards. In my early thirties, I made the decision to go back to school and get my Marketing degree, as I felt it was the next logical step to take. Prior to this, I had gained valuable real-world experience through various jobs. As I pursued my degree, I took on a part-time job to earn some extra money. At the time, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf franchise was opening up in Austin, Texas, and I jumped at the opportunity to work there. I loved the brand, having been a fan since my time in California, and I was eager to be a part of its growth. In fact, I even wrote a letter to the CEO expressing my passion for marketing and my intention to help the company expand. Within a year, I went from being a part-time barista to a Marketing Director, all while completing my degree and managing the franchise's marketing efforts. It was an incredible growth experience for me, as I was able to apply what I was learning in class to real-life situations.
As I continued to work as a Marketing Director for various companies, I noticed that many of my peers who were entrepreneurs or small business owners were struggling with their marketing efforts. I would often help them informally, but I realized that I could make a bigger impact by starting my own company and offering them professional marketing services. This decision has brought me a great deal of joy, and I haven't looked back since. I'm grateful for the opportunities that have led me to where I am today, and I'm excited to continue helping others succeed through effective marketing strategies.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
What brings the biggest smile to my face are the wonderful clients that I have the privilege of working with. I am constantly in awe of their incredible talents, their determination to succeed, and their tireless efforts to continuously improve and grow. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my job is guiding my clients through the often murky waters of marketing and setting them on the path to success. There's nothing quite like seeing them gain momentum and take off at full speed, with their business thriving and their goals within reach. Sometimes I can even get them to enjoy marketing and have fun with it, which feels so amazing. Working with these amazing entrepreneurs and witnessing their achievements is what brings me the greatest joy. It's incredibly rewarding to be able to play a small part in their success, and I feel grateful every day for the opportunity to help them reach their full potential.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Self-doubt was probably the hardest obstacle to overcome. As I was starting out, I found myself constantly questioning my own abilities and wondering if I was truly skilled enough to help people. Despite having over 12 years of marketing experience, I suffered from imposter syndrome and felt unworthy of payment for my services. In the beginning, I gave away a lot for free but soon realized that this was not sustainable as it resulted in less investment from clients and resentment on my part. It was a difficult cycle to break, but I eventually shifted my mindset and realized that I was helping my clients. The tools, experience, and knowledge I had were generating positive results, and clients were reaching their goals. Eventually, fear and self-doubt faded, and confidence replaced them.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Going into business for yourself doesn't mean doing it alone. You can't, and you shouldn't.
- You will feel uncomfortable, and that's good! This is where growth happens. If you find that you are coasting and feeling comfortable, something is wrong. You need to push yourself more and step into the uncomfortable again.
- Life setbacks, illness, divorce, pandemics, and other unexpected things will happen. Be kind and patient with yourself. Take moments for self-care and recharge. Nothing is so urgent that you can't take time to journal, walk, take that vacation, or spend time with family and friends. Don't let your business run you; YOU run your business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.sproutcreativela.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sproutcreativela/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-kury/
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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