Hi, Diane! Please share a brief introduction about yourself and your business:
Hi, I'm Diane, I'm Co-Founder of Blast Marketing Agency, a digital marketing agency focused on supporting and growing small to mid-sized businesses. Founded by highly capable digital marketing experts with years of experience working with companies large and small, we value the relationships we build with our clients and are committed to their long-term growth. We offer a range of flexible online marketing programs, with no contract required. Your success is our success!
Who are your customers?
Any small to mid-sized business that wants to boost its online presence, such as Health/Wellness/Medical Offices, Attorneys/Legal Services, CPAs/Financial Advisors, Home Services/Contractors, Salons/Spas, Restaurants/Bars, Real Estate, Retail, Gyms/Health Clubs, Auto Dealers, Travel/Hotels, Movers, Insurance Agencies, Cannabis etc.
What was your background prior to starting your own business?
I have a long, stellar career in digital advertising, marketing, media, and business development, including leadership roles supporting the growth needs of many types of businesses. I've seen first-hand how important it is for companies to effectively promote themselves and get the word out about their unique offerings online.
What made you take the leap to start your own business?
I wanted to help small businesses with online marketing opportunities who might not get the chance to since large ad agencies only work with large budgets. So, with all my years of experience in digital marketing, I decided to partner with one of my colleagues, and offer small businesses the opportunity to market themselves online with smaller budgets. So Blast Marketing Agency was born!
Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?
Yes! I always wanted to be in sales/marketing/advertising and have my own business. I have a BBA degree in marketing/advertising and was even selling my things to my friends as a kid :).
Take us back to when you first launched your business; what was your marketing strategy to get the word out and did it go as planned?
I posted our launch on all social media platforms. Sent emails to all my friends and family. Joined various organizations to get the word out and network. (One of the best ones is The Entreprenista League :) Yes, it went as planned.
We're so glad you're finding value here! What is the biggest challenge you have encountered along the way so far and what have you learned from it?
The biggest challenge is acquiring new clients. I learned that meeting people in person is important, especially with small businesses. It's much more personal and you really get to know people better in person to learn about their business and also their personal life as well. It's a win-win!
What accomplishment are the most proud of to date in your business?
I was discussing my new business with the owner of the vegan restaurant I go to. I asked him if he needed online marketing help and he said "Yes, definitely!” I said, "OK, we are in the process of building our website," and he said, "Can you help me now before your website is built?" I said, "Of course!" :) That was our first clients and he's still a client to this day.
Such an incredible story! Do you have any recent wins from the last year that you'd like to celebrate with our community?
Yes, we now we have 10 clients and we only launched last year.
What's next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?
We are always adding more digital marketing products for our clients to take advantage of. For example, we now offer video ads on streaming platforms, data-driven marketing based on behavioral insights, purchases, search activity, etc. Plus, we help build your brand with a new or updated website, logo, corporate image upgrade, tagline, positioning, etc.
What is your top productivity tip?
Focus on important tasks and update your to-do list as the day goes on. Be flexible. Every day is going to be different and you need to learn to adjust and pivot when needed.
On the flip side, how do you avoid burnout?
I meditate every morning which is a great start to the day. I plan workouts each week and make sure I take breaks during the workday to recharge.
What is your approach to work-life balance / integration?
My business is important to me (of course) but what is also important is making time to get outside, plan activities, vacations/travel and spend time with my boyfriend, family, and friends.
What is one thing you wish you had known when you started your Entreprenista journey?
I should have done this sooner!
We love to hear that! And we're so happy you found your place here. When hiring, what is your go-to interview question?
What is your greatest accomplishment or what are you most proud of?
Do you have a co-founder? If so, how did you find the right one for you and what are your best partnership tips?
Yes, I have a great co-founder! He hired me as a Sales Director at a previous job and we've been friends ever since. We discussed starting our own business and decided to start one together. Being in business with someone is like a marriage. You need to be able to trust each other, run ideas by each other, support each other, build each other up, and give advice and constructive criticism as well. There are going to be times when you have arguments and don't agree on things, but you should always come to a resolution that works for both of you, work it out, and move on! :)
What's the one app on your phone you absolutely cannot live without and why?
eBay and Mercari. I'm always selling something (sometimes buying as well) :)
What advice do you have for aspiring Entreprenistas?
Just do it! (of course, do your research first :) Don't be afraid to fail. If you don't take that first step you will never know!
Learn more about the Entreprenista League and join today!
About the Author
Entreprenista Team
