We’re a startup that aims to improve the way freelancers and independent workers market themselves. Our main product is personal marketing decals. We’ll be offering informative blogging as well as book and online course reviews targeted at freelancers.
At whom is your startup aimed?
Freelancers, startups and entrepreneurs.
How does your startup stand out against its competitors?
There aren’t really any competitors out there. There are plenty of decal vendors, but none that come from the goal of personal marketing.
Where did the idea for the startup come from?
As a freelancer I saw the lack of open social communication avenues in say a coffee shop, or shared workspace. By applying these decals to your laptop, you can really broadcast what type of work you do to everyone in the room, and open yourself up for a conversation.
Did you have any concerns when starting your business, if so what were they?
When people go to work in a public space, do they actually want to be bothered and approached? Wouldn’t they rather be left alone and get some work done?
Judging from the feedback we received, people are definitely looking for more social interaction, perhaps as a counter-movement to the globalization of freelancing and social relations in general.
What is your business background, and what got you interested in startups?
I worked as a digital project manager in an advertising agency, and have always been fascinated with the world of digital marketing and startups. To me, a good startup doesn’t have to be the next big thing as long as it solves a common problem.
How did you initially raise funding for your company?
Completely bootstrapped. Not much funding needed, we’re working on an order-by-order basis instead of going for a big inventory. It cuts into profit margins, but it gives us a chance to see which designs and art styles work best.
What has been your greatest achievement so far?
Being featured on blogs all over the world. It came as a complete surprise and validated the idea that this isn’t just an issue for freelancers in Western Europe for example. We had a great response from freelancers from India, and plenty of Brazilian websites as well.
How have you kept your business relevant and engaged with your audience over the last three years?
We just launched today (17/02) so I’ll get back to you on that one in 2018 ☺.
How long has your business been in making, and who is the team behind the business?
I started working on the idea at the end of December and pushed for a launch here in the middle of February. I run things by myself, but I work with freelancers where possible. I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with some great designers for the decals and I’m glad with the way they turned out.
What has been your biggest challenge so far?
Getting the word out on top-tier websites. The product is for a pretty niche audience, and it’s not as sexy as the latest tech-startup. All things considered, the news seems to be spreading well on its own.
In the coming year, what would you like to achieve with your business?
I’d love to build a real passionate community. My goal is to offer great content for our target audience and to have animated discussions in the comment sections. I’d love for people to provide reviews for books and courses, so we can all help each other to invest our time in the best possible sources.
What has been your most valuable lesson so far since starting your business?
Marketing is king. No matter how great your product, you have to get the word out.
Finally, if you could give one piece of advice to someone thinking about starting a business, what would it be?
Don’t wait with marketing and PR until you’ve launched. Build an MVP and see how people respond. This may save you a lot of future headaches and wasted time. Talk to people, respond to tweets, interact with your peers and colleagues and accept honest advice.
