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Running a business on your own comes with an abundance of benefits — the ability to determine your own schedule, the freedom to make decisions based on your own ideas and the opportunity to work on whatever projects you find interesting. However, being a solopreneur or solo creator also means you’re the only one responsible for starting and growing your company, which can be a lot of pressure for one person to handle.
As business leaders, the members of Rolling Stone Culture Council are familiar with what it takes to build a brand from the ground up. Below, they each offer up one tip for solopreneurs and creators looking to start their own brands, grow them and succeed as leaders in the culture space.
Focus on One Thing That Makes You Different
Focus on one thing. Make that your thing. Keep it simple. Even if it’s something silly or something everyone in your space does, find out what is unique about you and what makes you different. Then, promote that thing like crazy on social media and in the press. Before you know it, you’ll be able to branch out because your clients and customers will show you what else you are good at! – Victoria Kennedy, Marisa Johnson
Stay Patient
The one tip I would give is to be patient. Even a “quick” success takes years. Patience is also key when building your team and your processes. Building a solid foundation will take time and energy, and you have to be ready for the long haul. If you have the patience and energy to build and grow throughout the ups and downs, it is amazing what can be achieved! – Nathan Green, New Level Radio
Understand What You’re Getting Into
Take the plunge with eyes wide open. The appeal of being your own boss, bringing your ideas to life, becoming a thought leader and earning wealth is undeniable. But remember the potential challenges of long hours, not taking a salary, unsuccessful attempts and feelings of isolation. Despite the obstacles, nothing beats the satisfaction of overcoming them and creating value for your audience. – Michael Klein, cannabisMD
Tell a Story With a Positive Impact
One key tip for solopreneurs and creators looking to build their brand from the ground up is to tell a compelling story with a positive impact. Readers, customers and partners will clamor to do business with you if you have caught their attention with an interesting, positive-impact story to which they can relate. – Jason Fiber, THX
The Rolling Stone Culture Council is an invitation-only community for Influencers, Innovators and Creatives. Do I qualify?
Be Your Authentic Self
Authenticity builds trust and loyalty. People are more likely to engage with and support a brand that feels real and relatable. When you showcase your genuine self, you attract like-minded individuals who connect with your message and mission. This creates a loyal community of followers that not only support your work but also become your brand advocates. – Kristin Marquet, Marquet Media, LLC
Leverage Your Personal Brand
Solopreneurs have the advantage of leveraging a personal brand to create stronger engagement. From career experience to personal interests, these elements can help solo creators connect to audiences much more quickly. Using your personal story to build your brand will create a more captivated audience and allow people to connect with you and your brand simultaneously, giving you the benefit of instant brand loyalty. – Dan Serard, Cannabis Creative Group
Stop and Listen
You already have the drive, ideas and, likely, the team, but there is always something to learn. To deliver a service or product people value, you’ll want to genuinely reflect their needs and concerns, armed with more knowledge. You’ll then offer something quality and in demand, building credibility and confidence. – Cynthia Johnson, Bell + Ivy
Be Honest About Your ‘Why,’ ‘What’ and ‘Who’
Be honest with yourself. Why are you doing this particular thing? What do you do differently or better than any other brand out there? Who is your customer? Are you speaking to them in the manner in which they engage? – Susan Johnston, New Media Film Festival®
Seek Out a Mentor
When you’re just starting out, it is vital to find a mentor. They will help you avoid common mistakes and will give you a quicker path to success. – Matt Campbell, My Wedding Songs
Find What Moves You
One tip would be to find what moves you and what makes you confident in your ability to help others. From there, it’s all about connection. Get to know others in many different ways so you can find where your skill can best be put to use, and for whom, without feeling the drain or pressure along the way. Make a positive flow. – Chris Bianchi, CB Entertainment
