Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Kerr
Hi Justin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
After earning a degree from Rhode Island School of Design, my first job was roofing houses — a humbling experience and an important step in my personal growth. I eventually landed a position as a graphic designer and have spent the past 30+ years developing my skills in brand strategy and design. I spent much of my career working for different organizations before starting my own design and branding agency in 2016.
In 2019, I made one of the most significant branding decisions of my career when I combined my profession (design) with my passion (historical re-enactor as a pirate). It helped distinguish me in the marketplace and provided a persona many people gravitated to. Now, when I attend networking events I simply write “pirate” on my name tag and have the most interesting conversations.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I was already a skilled designer when I decided to go out on my own but I knew zero about how to run a business. I embarked on a 5-year crash course in entrepreneurship and made as many mistakes as possible (how else do you learn?). I was fortune to be surrounded with smart, experienced business owners who taught me how to network and kept me moving forward while I slowly gained confidence.
The dirty little secret few entrepreneurs will tell you is that the challenges of owning your own business never stop coming but you learn to panic less as you gain experience. I also stopped comparing myself against other people’s LinkedIn highlight reels and became content with the course I had plotted for my own business.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in brand strategy and design — which is a fancy way of saying I help others discover their authentic self and communicate it effectively to the world. I enjoy guiding clients on a journey to their true brand.
I’ve never developed a market niche and have been fortunate to work with a wide range of clients, from venture capitalists to healthcare professionals to artists. I like the variety and always learn something new each time I work on a project.
What matters most to you?
My business has been built on a relational, rather than a transactional, philosophy. That doesn’t mean I don’t like money or offer my services at rock-bottom prices; but I’ve always preferred to build relationships with my clients over looking for ways to squeeze an extra dollar from them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.justinkerrdesign.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justinkerrdesign
