We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Margaret Phiri a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Margaret , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Often the greatest growth and the biggest wins come right after a defeat. Other times the failure serves as a lesson that’s helpful later in your journey. We’d appreciate if you could open up about a time you’ve failed.

One notable instance of failure in my professional journey occurred with my first assistant. She was a young newcomer to the workforce, and this marked her first job. I mistakenly assumed that individuals would naturally take the initiative and be self-starters. However, my expectations clashed with the reality of the millennial generation, as this wasn’t her modus operandi.

Our working relationship went south within a few weeks, prompting me to acknowledge the failure and end the collaboration. It became apparent that I had taken for granted certain skills and qualities that come with experience, skills she hadn’t yet cultivated. Her upbringing had shielded her from having to figure things out independently, making it challenging for her to navigate the demands of the job.

Upon reflection, I recognized my shortcomings in setting clear goals and effectively communicating them to her. I also realized that my assumption about her ability to seek help when needed was flawed. As a manager, it became clear that building a cohesive team required not only selecting the right individuals for the job but also honing my leadership skills to foster a more supportive and communicative environment. This experience prompted me to grow as a leader and refine my approach in cultivating a successful team.

Margaret , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Throughout my extensive 15-year journey in website development, I have passionately honed my skills and expertise. My initial foray into the world of web design was marked by self-teaching, driven by a genuine love for the craft. Recognizing the value of formal education to augment my knowledge, I embarked on a journey to take relevant classes, fortifying my skill set in key areas.

My primary focus lies in developing and hosting WordPress websites tailored for businesses. This involves a comprehensive approach that extends beyond mere creation, encompassing the crucial aspects of marketing through SEO tools and Google. I am not merely a web developer; I am a strategic partner for my clients, providing solutions that extend beyond the technical realm.

One of the core problems I address for my clients is the need to establish a robust online presence. I am dedicated to transforming their digital landscape, creating an online storefront that seamlessly connects with their target audience. Through the utilization of SEO marketing tools and Google services, I ensure that their websites are not only visually appealing but also strategically positioned to attract and engage customers effectively.

My commitment goes beyond the technical intricacies of website development. I understand that a website is more than just a digital platform; it is a dynamic tool that businesses can leverage to reach their customers and establish a compelling online identity. My role is to empower clients by providing them with the means to navigate the digital landscape successfully.

In essence, my journey in website development is a testament to my adaptability, continuous learning, and commitment to delivering holistic solutions. I am not merely a developer; I am a catalyst for my clients’ online success

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

Regardless of life stage, take the first step. Whether driven by passion, a desire to learn, or starting a business, begin today. Small actions yield significant results over time. Don’t fret over current knowledge gaps; progress comes with time. Today, focus on starting—each step brings you closer to your goals.

This held me back for so long especially the fear of what people will say behind my back. Once I overcame those internal negative self beliefs I was able to move past them and soar!

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Consistency is the key to expanding my clientele, a principle I emphasize to everyone I encounter. Regularly discussing my services with anyone, I believe in the power of networking—you never know who might be connected to someone in need of what I offer. My commitment to self-marketing is unwavering, ensuring a continuous and visible presence in various circles. By consistently promoting myself, I maximize opportunities and connections that contribute to the ongoing growth of my clientele.

Contact Info:

• Website: mprintcreations.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mprintcreations/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mprintcreations
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/mprintcreations

Image Credits
April Carlson