Building My Communications Business

In April 2017, fueled by a whirlwind of change and inspiration from my time at Crew.co, I embarked on a bold new career journey. At Crew, I was immersed in a dynamic environment filled with creatives, freelancers, and agency owners.

When Crew was acquired and subsequently shut down, I realized the immense potential and freedom of freelancing. This realization and a strong network cultivated from years of connecting with brilliant minds spurred me to start my own copywriting business. I leveraged this network, where most of my clients now come from referrals, to set the foundation for a thriving venture.

The Early Days: Laying the Groundwork

With a solid network and a passion for narrative, I set out to carve a niche in the competitive world of copywriting. My approach was clear: provide not just words but strategies that aligned with my clients’ visions. This strategic offering allowed me to quickly build a portfolio reflecting my skills and commitment to delivering impactful content.

I connected with a few different organizations I had worked with during my time at Crew and built a solid reputation as a “Jill of all trades” communications freelancer. Working on everything from newsletters and email marketing to UX and micro-copy.

Expanding Horizons by Going Global

As my reputation grew, so did the diversity of my client base. By 2019, I worked with clients across various sectors, including tech, consumer packaged goods, and sports. From creating and managing digital advertising campaigns to developing comprehensive SEO and content strategies, each project was not just a job but a learning opportunity, pushing me to expand my expertise and adapt to new industries.

I now prefer working within the design and creative industries, along with my soft spot for athletics.

Strategic Growth by Nurturing Client Relationships

As a solopreneur managing 4-10 retainer clients simultaneously, the key was balance—between chasing new opportunities and deepening existing relationships. Using digital tools like Slack, Asana, Google Suite, Squarespace, Later, and various social media channels enabled me to maintain this balance, ensuring every client received personalized and effective content solutions.

This ability to manage and nurture relationships has been central to my business model, reflecting a core principle of community and connection.

Funnily enough, it all boils back to my time at Crew as an account manager. I was “on” and responding to requests and providing support almost 24/7, and while I am no longer available at all hours of the day, my clients notice that I go above and beyond to communicate with them.

Today’s Business: Riptidings

Today, my business is a testament to the power of strategic growth and networking. I've also expanded into areas like strategic communications consulting for tech startups, reflecting my commitment to staying at the forefront of digital marketing trends.

I incorporated my business in July 2021 and haven’t looked back. While the revenue (and taxes) continue to grow, I’m always looking ahead to my next project and my next way to put processes on auto-pilot to keep moving forward.

Lessons Learned

This journey has reinforced several key lessons: the importance of adaptability, the value of a strong network, and the necessity of continuous learning.

Staying abreast of industry trends and maintaining personal connections have fueled the growth of my business and enriched my personal and professional life.

Looking Forward

As I look to the future, I am excited about exploring new opportunities and expanding into untapped markets. The path of entrepreneurship is continuous, filled with challenges and opportunities alike. I am ready to take on whatever comes next, armed with experience, a solid network, and an unyielding passion for my craft.

Remember that resilience, adaptability, and a strong network are invaluable for entrepreneurs. Embrace these, and you’ll find that your unique path can lead to fulfilling success.

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Would you like to chat about my experience or an upcoming project? Reach out!