We recently connected with Jonathan Ruley and have shared our conversation below.

Jonathan, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear how you think where to draw the line in terms of asking friends and family to support your business – what’s okay and what’s over the line?

When people think of “supporting”, most people immediately assume financially. While financial support always helps and is greatly appreciated, there are so many other ways one can show support. Telling others about it, posting about it on social platforms, engaging on the business’s social media posts, attending events,etc. Growing up, my mom always said, “The squeaky wheel gets the oil”. If you don’t feel supported, just ask!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

In college, I studied Business Administration and Marketing at Boise State University. At the time, there was no Digital Marketing program. Most of the focus was spent on old-school marketing styles; newspapers, magazines, and tv commercials. With advancements in technology happening at a rapid pace, I knew these dated styles weren’t sustainable or beneficial for long-term growth. Through networking, YouTube, and other marketing channels online, I started teaching myself more modern ways. To continue my education and advance my skillset, I began consulting for local companies. It started with a social media strategy, that then led to a brand strategy. Before I knew it, I was consulting for over 20 local businesses. In 12 months, I became the local marketing guru. I continued consulting after my college graduation until I had the opportunity to exit the business. After moving locations and a few career changes, I landed at an innovative tech startup called Vizer working as the Head of Marketing, where I’ve been for the last two years.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

The freelance company I started in college, Oversight Media, was doing very well for a one-person team. I was consulting for over 20 local companies. I continued to educate myself, network, and scale the business. Even though the future was looking bright, I wasn’t happy. I didn’t feel fulfilled. I felt like something was missing.

I started exploring different areas I’d like to live in, communities I’d want to be involved in, and thinking about things in life I truly enjoy. I made the decision to leave Oversight Media and move to San Diego, California. When I told my friends and family, nobody understood. Everyone looked at me with confusion. Thinking that I’m making a mistake. This was a gut feeling and I had to listen to it.

After living in San Diego for over three years, I can confidently say that it was the best decision I’ve made. I have never been happier. The leap of faith paid off.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

Growing up we’re taught that to be successful, make a lot of money, and live stress-free, you need to go to college. Although that may have been true in the past, that’s not true in today’s world. Most of my experience came from teaching myself through trial and error. Yes, I did go to college. That’s what I thought I had to do.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathanruley/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanruley/