Five Key Lessons I’ve Learned From Running My Own Business
Yup that’s me. I bet you’re wondering how I got here.
As we gear up for some huge changes to Dom Productions, I thought I’d share five random (but pivotal) lessons I’ve learned since launching this business formally in 2019.
I started this business because I realized there was a gap in the level of service and care that freelancers provide in comparison to large-scale marketing agencies. Not to mention the lack of women representation behind the camera, and the lack of diversity in the marketing industry as a whole.
After graduating from university with my Bachelor of Journalism, I was hired as a content producer on a marketing team for an insurance company. During my three years in this position, I was able to practice using professional photography equipment, work on my video editing skills, and publish blog posts on a national forum.
Sounds great, right?
But I also faced countless micro-aggressions and experienced what I considered to be toxic workplace culture. There was no consideration for mental health, parental needs, or the POC experience.
So in 2019, I finally made the decision to leave and start my own business - one where I could give other women and women-of-colour the chance to upgrade their skills in the media production field, and have a say in forming workplace culture and content marketing strategies.
In June of that year, I quit my full-time job and registered for a government-funded program that taught young aspiring entrepreneurs how to build a business plan and launch strategy.
Shortly after starting in the program, I registered the business... and that's how Dom Productions started!
Five years later… what have I learned?
I’ll make this short and sweet. If you’re a business owner or aspiring entrepreneur, check out these five quick lessons I’ve learned throughout this process:
Lesson #1
Great things can come from small teams, as long as you maintain open communication. Shout out to my amazing team members who treat DP as if it were their own <3
Lesson #2
There will be moments when you want to shut it all down and escape to another country for good (aka me a month ago). Don’t take it as a sign of defeat or a loss of passion. Take it as a sign that you’re probably burnt out. It’s time to chill the f*ck out and recharge 🔋
Lesson #3
Talk to your clients. Ask them questions. They’re some of your biggest supporters and your greatest referral system.
Lesson #4
You’ll never regret saying "no" to something that didn't feel right… even if it means money lost. Trust me, you’ll make back that money AND more.
Lesson #5
The entrepreneur journey will look different for every single person, and there will be ebbs and flows. Don't compare your story to someone else's highlight reel. Chances are they’re crying in a corner more often than you think. You just don’t see it.
Dom Productions offers high-quality, fun photo and video shoots at affordable rates for brands and businesses.
Check out our service packages or book a call with us to learn more!
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