We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shara Jackson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Shara, thanks for joining us today. Getting that first client is always an exciting milestone. Can you talk to us about how you got your first customer who wasn’t a friend, family, or acquaintance?
My first student came from an amazing private school that I was working for at the time. This student had so much heart and love for movement, and I knew that she would be the perfect person and personality to start what is now SDP Dance Studio.
I remember sending that first email to her mom inviting her family to be a part of my first ever competition program; a program that I knew would change so many lives and impact so many young artists in Atlanta. I had taught her daughter in a summer camp, and she just had that special “thing” and that love for dance that I loved to see. On top of that, she was kind and so easy to work with. She had all of the core values that I wanted my business to stand on. When her mom paid her first month of tuition; I knew that this was only the beginning. I was so ready to change lives.
Shara, 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?
I have more than 25 years of dance training experience and 8 years of producing experience. I have danced on the renowned national championship University of Minnesota dance team, while graduating with a BA in Journalism. My love for entertainment took her to Los Angeles, CA where she spent 6 years working as a program director for Star Education non-profit organization, focusing on quality performing arts curriculum and enrichment. She quickly found a home performing with Kid Tribe, kids fitness organization, where she worked with Nickelodeon Day of Play, Girls Scouts Corporate and performed at the White House for 4 consecutive years, for Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” initiative. She has made TV appearances for; Beyonce, Glee, Radio Disney, Pepsi, and the Super Bowl pre-show.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
Social media will be your best source when it comes to finding new clients. I think a lot of business owners have to understand that advertising without strategy is the biggest mistake they can make. You have to know your avatar and truly advertise to the kind of client that you want representing your business. I would say that 80% of my clients have come directly from Instagram.
Can you open up about how you funded your business?
My parents have always taught me to save. When I was ready to start my business I was working full time. I began to save money as I was gaining clients. Once I was financially ready to make the leap of faith and leave my full time job, my husband truly believed in my vision and covered my business fully for an entire year. Between my husband’s support and my savings, we made it all happen. There is nothing like having family in your corner who invest and believe in your dream.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sharadproductions.com/
- Instagram: SDP Dance Studio
- Facebook: SDP Dance Studio
Image Credits
Showbiz National Talent Showstoppers Dance Competition