Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Traci Baker Jackson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Traci, 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 client was referral from a friend. A local coffee shop needed a website and a logo. Little did I know the shop was a popular spot and a reference point to get new clients.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

We create iconic brands – specializing in helping women showcase their unique niche. To put it simply, I cultivate brands that showcase the best YOU. Exceptional passion and empathy combined with my expert knowledge of online marketing allows me to strategically build 6 and 7-figure brands for my clients. I absolutely love what I do, being woman owned small-business; nothing makes me happier than to see my clients gain the confidence and clarity in bringing their vision to life.

As a professional designer for the past 15+ years, I’ve had the pleasure of creating design strategies for small businesses, start-ups, influencers, content creators, household celebrities, and even Grammy award winning artists. I illustrated and co-created the concept for Curly Girls Love Your Curls, by Lexi P. In addition, I was the Creative Director for the Emmy nominated FOX 5 DC holiday special, Home for the Holiday’s with Paul Wharton and Patti LaBelle. My designs have been featured on platforms such as Essence, Fashion Bomb Daily, Sally Beauty (Curalantista’s – online and in East Coast Stores), and on television including FOX, ABC, and BET.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

You don’t have to have a “job”’ to be successful. My father would literally send me graphic design jobs daily for the 5 years I was building my business. It wasn’t until I started working with his peers and their brands that he realized I may actually have a chance in this business. M parents would constantly tell me I needed to find a job so I could have retirement and savings. Imagine if I would have bought into that – I wouldn’t be a part of this interview today.

I didn’t know any business owners growing up. I was only family with successful business men and women. The goal was to be a doctor, lawyer, or a high powered executive for someone else’s business.

I went that route as a contractor making close to 6 figures as senior graphic designer. When I lost the contract, no one would hire me because my past salary was too high.

So for me, starting my business was the only choice. I was a single parent with two kids. I needed to provide a comfortable home and lifestyle for them to grow and flourish. Becoming an entrepreneur was the answer for me. My sons have been on this journey with me. They have seen the struggles and successes of entrepreneurship.

I had to unlearn being afraid of the unknown and stop listening to the “what ifs” and “the you can’t do that” – because I am doing it. I will continue to grow and scale my brand to a multi-million dollar enterprise. My goal is to go anywhere in the world and be able to point at something and say “I did that.”

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

The best source of new clients is working a business development team who knows your skill set and capabilities.

Contact Info:

• Website: Tbjbrand.com
• Instagram: @tbjbrand / @tracibakerjackson
• Facebook: TraciBakerJackson
• Linkedin: Traci Baker Jackson
• Yelp: Tbj Brand Management Group