Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kiera Johnson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Kiera, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.
In 2019, I ventured into entrepreneurship, laying the foundation for a business that would ultimately redefine my professional journey. Owning and managing a business became my initial foray into the dynamic world of commerce. However, the story doesn’t end there; it unfolds into a narrative of calculated risks, unwavering vision, and eventual triumph.
The pivotal moment came when I decided to expand my entrepreneurial endeavors to include a day-of weddings coordination service. This marked a significant turning point as I navigated the intricate landscape of the wedding industry. It was a bold move, driven by a desire to diversify and explore new avenues within my business portfolio.
This expansion wasn’t without its challenges. Taking risks in the business world often involves putting personal resources on the line, and I took that leap by investing my last dollar into this venture. The decision wasn’t merely financial; it was a testament to my unwavering belief in a vision that, at the time, only I could see. This vision encompassed creating a service that went beyond conventional boundaries, offering a unique and personalized touch to wedding coordination.
The journey was not without its share of setbacks. Enduring losses and making personal sacrifices became an integral part of the process. These challenges, while daunting, fueled my determination to see the vision through. Each setback became a learning opportunity, shaping my resilience and reinforcing my commitment to success.
Amidst the trials, there were pivotal moments of validation. The recognition of my efforts came in the form of being published in numerous magazines, attesting to the uniqueness and quality of the services offered. The scope of my business expanded with worldwide marketing efforts, reaching audiences far beyond initial expectations.
One of the crowning achievements was being honored with the title of Entrepreneur of the Year. This accolade not only acknowledged the success of my ventures but also underscored the impact of taking calculated risks and staying true to a singular vision.
To encapsulate the journey and share insights garnered along the way, I authored my first ebook. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of successfully executing and maintaining a thriving business. It serves as a testament to the lessons learned from risking everything for a vision that transcended the ordinary.
In hindsight, the risk of investing my last dollar in pursuit of an unconventional vision proved transformative. The sacrifices made and losses incurred were not in vain; they were stepping stones toward realizing a dream that initially existed solely within my imagination. The expansion into weddings coordination and the subsequent accolades reaffirmed the power of taking calculated risks, unwavering commitment, and the ability to turn a solitary vision into a globally recognized success.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My journey into entrepreneurship began during my college years when the constraints of my schedule necessitated an additional income source. Recognizing the potential in the beauty industry, I ventured into selling lashes. The path, however, was fraught with challenges as I encountered setbacks from subpar vendors. Undeterred, my unwavering dedication led me to identify the right vendors, propelling me into the world of wholesale.
This initial venture laid the foundation for a multifaceted business that extends beyond beauty products. Today, my brand encompasses a diverse range of services, from motivational speaking and e-book offerings to bartending classes and day-of wedding coordination. The evolution of my business reflects not only resilience but a commitment to addressing diverse client needs comprehensively.
Understanding the challenges faced by clients juggling full-time jobs, parenting, or unforeseen circumstances, I recognized an opportunity to step in as the support they need. My role extends to providing assistance with business aspects, elevating analytics, and offering a range of services, making their lives more manageable.
A significant milestone in my journey was being honored with the title of Entrepreneur of the Year in Charleston, South Carolina. This recognition affirmed the success achieved at a young age and fueled my commitment to continuous growth. Multiple guest speaking engagements, a successful e-book launch, and overall business success stand as testaments to the dedication invested in building a brand that resonates.
What sets my brand apart is its versatility – a one-stop-shop for various business needs. Whether clients seek personal assistance, childcare, bartending services, or wholesale opportunities, my brand offers a comprehensive solution. The ethos of my business lies in the belief that clients should be able to access support and services tailored to their unique requirements, all under one umbrella.
In essence, I am not merely a lash vendor turned entrepreneur; I am a dynamic professional offering a spectrum of services designed to empower clients in both their personal and business endeavors. My story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to providing unparalleled support to those navigating the complexities of modern life.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
In the journey of building my business, a pivotal lesson I had to unlearn was the expectation that everyone, including family and friends, would unequivocally support my endeavors. The backstory of this realization unfolds through experiences that unveiled the nuances of entrepreneurial pursuits.
Initially, I harbored the assumption that the support system within my immediate circle would be automatic and unwavering. However, reality struck when not everyone exhibited the enthusiasm or encouragement I anticipated. This realization was a significant paradigm shift, prompting me to reassess my expectations and redefine my approach.
Understanding that not everyone is obligated to support my business endeavors was a crucial turning point. It forced me to acknowledge the individuality of perspectives and priorities among my network. While some might not resonate with my ventures, it doesn’t diminish their significance in my life.
This lesson compelled me to adopt a more discerning mindset, focusing on those who did extend their support rather than dwelling on those who didn’t. It became evident that nurturing the relationships with individuals genuinely invested in my success was more valuable than seeking validation from a broad audience.
Embracing this shift allowed me to channel my energy into fostering meaningful connections with the supporters—those who attended my events, shared my posts, and provided references. Instead of being disheartened by the lack of universal backing, I channeled gratitude towards those who actively contributed to the growth of my business.
In a professional context, this lesson reshaped my approach to networking and collaboration. I learned to identify and appreciate the allies who championed my initiatives. Genuine support, even from a smaller circle, proved to be more impactful than a superficial acknowledgment from a larger audience.
Expressing gratitude became a cornerstone of my interactions with supporters. I cultivated a habit of acknowledging their contributions, whether through personalized messages, recognition at events, or small tokens of appreciation. This not only reinforced the positive connection but also created a symbiotic relationship where their support felt valued and reciprocated.
Furthermore, I realized the significance of focusing on the quality rather than the quantity of support. The depth of engagement from a handful of dedicated supporters often translated into more substantial outcomes for my business than passive acknowledgment from a broader, less engaged audience.
In conclusion, unlearning the expectation of universal support taught me the importance of discernment and gratitude in the entrepreneurial journey. By shifting my focus to those who actively contribute to my success, I not only navigated the challenges of building a business more effectively but also cultivated a supportive community that propels me towards achieving my goals.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
Building a strong reputation within my market has been a nuanced journey, shaped by a combination of consistency, strategic outbound and inbound marketing, and a personalized approach, including on-foot marketing initiatives. This multifaceted strategy has played a pivotal role in elevating my standing within the specific market.
Consistency stands as a cornerstone of my reputation-building efforts. From delivering quality products or services to maintaining a cohesive brand image, consistency has fostered trust and reliability. Whether it’s meeting deadlines, ensuring product excellence, or providing top-notch customer service, my commitment to consistency has positioned me as a reliable entity within the market.
Strategic outbound marketing has been instrumental in creating visibility and awareness for my brand. Leveraging various channels such as social media, email campaigns, and targeted advertisements, I have proactively reached out to potential clients and collaborators. This intentional approach ensures that my brand remains on the radar of the target audience, contributing significantly to brand recognition and market presence.
Equally crucial is the implementation of inbound marketing strategies. By creating valuable content, optimizing my online presence, and utilizing SEO techniques, I have attracted organic traffic to my platforms. This not only establishes me as an authority in the field but also fosters a sense of credibility among potential clients and partners. Inbound marketing has facilitated a more natural and authentic connection with the audience, contributing to the positive perception of my brand within the market.
Additionally, on-foot marketing initiatives have played a role in establishing a personal connection with the local community. Attending industry events, networking sessions, and community gatherings has allowed me to engage with my audience on a more personal level. This hands-on approach has not only facilitated direct interactions but also provided insights into the local market dynamics, enabling me to tailor my strategies more effectively.
Networking, both online and offline, has been a key component of my reputation-building efforts. Actively participating in industry forums, collaborating with influencers, and forming partnerships have expanded my reach and credibility. By associating with respected figures and organizations within the market, I have gained the endorsement and validation needed to enhance my reputation.
Client testimonials and positive reviews have also played a pivotal role in building my reputation. Actively encouraging and showcasing feedback from satisfied clients has created social proof of my competence and reliability. This transparent approach contributes to the credibility of my brand, assuring potential clients of the positive experiences of others.
Moreover, adapting to market trends and staying ahead of the curve has been crucial. Regularly updating strategies, incorporating innovative technologies, and staying informed about industry shifts have positioned me as a forward-thinking and adaptive player within the market. This proactive stance has not only enhanced my reputation but also contributed to sustained relevance in a dynamic business landscape.
In conclusion, the synthesis of consistency, strategic outbound and inbound marketing, on-foot engagement, networking, client testimonials, and adaptability has been instrumental in building and elevating my reputation within the market. By aligning these elements cohesively, I have established a strong and positive presence that resonates with my target audience and sets me apart in my specific market.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lashaddictbyki.com
- Instagram: @lashaddictbyki
- Facebook: Lash Addict by Ki
Image Credits
Book with C.Metro Graphics by Kiera Johnson