4 Tips To Get Attention Of Google, Target & Other Big Corporations
Back in 2012, as an outgoing junior in college, registering my business felt like stepping into the unknown. Entrepreneurship wasn't initially my dream job, but armed with a degree in creative advertising, I yearned for something fun and artsy in my career. Fast forward to today, and I find myself running a business whose products grace the shelves of Target! Curious about the journey? Let's delve into the four key principles that have guided me as a business owner.
Be consistent
Consistency is the cornerstone of my decade-long journey as an entrepreneur, often prompting the question, "how did you do it?" The answer lies in maintaining the same business name since day one – a rarity in any industry. From Art & Ambition Studios to Addie Rawr, our unwavering brand identity ensures that customers remember us wherever they encounter our products, be it on t-shirts, hand-painted planners, or pillows. Despite evolving product lines, our mission and style have remained steadfast since 2012, with our signature fro, faceless dolls, and bold fashion still taking center stage. This steadfastness has not only fostered customer loyalty but also garnered recognition from companies we've collaborated with, who attest to our enduring impact over the years.
Research
Research is the unsung hero of my entrepreneurial journey, consuming over 1,000 hours of my time and proving to be a vital investment. Delving into industry insights and new technologies has propelled my business into spaces where it can truly make a difference. Now, as a full-time business owner, I dedicate at least a weekly session to research, aided by an exceptional team that shares the load. Whether it's exploring avenues for business growth, establishing connections with larger corporations, or embracing innovative tools, my quest for knowledge has led me to participate in research groups with industry giants like PayPal, Stripe, Office Depot, and even Google Ads. Each survey or feedback submission not only contributes to beta testing new features but also keeps my business top-of-mind for future opportunities, ultimately fostering fruitful collaborations and access to invaluable resources. While the process may involve countless hours of meticulous Google searches and rabbit-hole exploration, the insights gleaned are invaluable in steering my business toward success.
Go the extra mile
Going the extra mile is my mantra when it comes to ensuring the success of my business. While being a successful business owner is incredibly rewarding, it demands far more effort than meets the eye. Beyond the facade of Instagram filters and TikTok aesthetics lies the reality of building a business from the ground up, where going above and beyond the norm is essential. Take, for instance, this very blog you're reading. While writing it may seem straightforward, the true value lies in its purpose. Blogs serve as powerful tools for driving traffic to your website, regardless of your industry. By addressing topics that resonate with your audience and meticulously optimizing for SEO, you can position your content at the forefront of online searches. For instance, our blog on Black Owned Tea Company ranks on the first page of Google searches, attracting thousands of website visits monthly. Owning a business is just the first step; it's the additional effort you put in that truly sets you apart and brings your business into the spotlight.
Expand your network
I want to give a big shoutout to my amazing crew of creatives! Many of them are incredibly talented Black creatives who have worked with major companies, either in-house or as freelancers. When I first began building my network, these connections started as genuine friendships. During my college years, I had the opportunity to meet individuals who later became influential figures in the industry, offering invaluable connections for my business. While I did have a few friends in influential positions, my true networking journey began by simply being present and engaged. Between 2014 and 2018, I made it a point to be everywhere! Living in Richmond, VA, I attended every art, fashion, or media event I could find. I even ventured to events like "Where Are All The Black People," an advertising event in NYC (now called "Here Are All The Black People"). For an entire year, I made a monthly pilgrimage to New York to attend events, visit art studios, and immerse myself in the city's culture. In 2016, I embarked on the "Network 100" challenge, sending out 100 postcards to introduce Addie Rawr to various corporations. My goal was to ensure that as many people as possible knew who I was and what I was doing. After years of networking tirelessly, opportunities began to pour in. Following Essence Festival 2018, I scaled back my physical presence on the scene, but I continued to prioritize connecting with micro-influencers, new business owners, educators, and more whenever I had free time. Thanks to the groundwork laid in the early years, my name continues to resonate in rooms even when I'm not physically present. In 2019, I decided to pay it forward by creating my own community within Art & Ambition Studios, where I could share my network with other Black designers and artists. I hope this insight inspires you to dream big and turn your "small business" dreams into monumental achievements!
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