We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Neidy Hornsby a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Neidy , appreciate you joining us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
Noir IP is a business and trademark law firm exclusively serving women entrepreneurs. I started the firm to bridge the gap in access to bespoke legal services. For far too long, women have been launching incredible businesses without establishing a strong legal foundation.
At Noir IP, we provide quality legal services at predictable flat fees. This model is disruptive to the legal industry. Traditionally, attorneys bill by the hour. We have decided to challenge that model. Our core belief is that entrepreneurs should be able to build out their vision unencumbered by mounting legal fees.
Our all-female team is dedicated to simplifying important legal considerations on behalf of our clients. We are motivated by the fact that “we are our typical client.” In other words, we too, are building a brand and understand the importance of justifying every dollar. I think our clients appreciate our transparency and commitment to helping them grow strategically without breaking the bank.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am a wife, mom of three, and Managing Attorney of Noir IP.
I worked at some of the biggest firms in Florida before realizing that my values were not supported within a traditional corporate structure. I started my business because I wanted a career that added value to my other important roles.
I knew instinctively that I had to design my life and not simply live it.
In the beginning, I practiced “door law” (i.e. whoever came through the door with money to pay). This felt disjointed, in hindsight I can see how it was part of the process. Throughout that time I was able to think clearly about the kind of law that truly interested me. I gradually began to help entrepreneurs safeguard their brand identity through the trademark process.
Our reputation grew quickly amongst groups of entrepreneurial women. To date, we serve female founders exclusively and the vast majority are women of color. I cannot be happier. I get to serve women who are building legacy.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
I have to unlearn the lie of being unworthy. I use the term ‘unlearn’ quite loosely here. I believe this is an ongoing process of self-discovery.
I think as women we are socialized to rely on self-doubt as a scapegoat for challenging situations. However, when you launch a business self-doubt quickly destroys an investment of time, energy, and financial resources. I had to gradually unlearn this hindering mental attitude. Exposing myself to challenging situations and rising to the occasion helped the process significantly.
How did you build your audience on social media?
Our core pillar for social media content is to share timely, valuable, and relevant information with our audience. Our audience is still growing. However, our current followers are constantly thanking us for the resources we provide. Additionally, we are unapologetically ourselves. Authenticity is King. When you are overly guarded and transactional people can sense it.
I have often heard statements like “you don’t sound like an attorney.” I’m not sure what an attorney is supposed to sound like. I’m just happy that they can see me for who I am.
Contact Info:
- Website: NoirIP.com
- Instagram: GuardYourGenius
- Linkedin: Neidy Hornsby