Jazmine Valencia on using an artist-focused approach to grow careers for some of today's most talented musicians

Describe your business in a few words?

Music Marketing Agency.

What made you take the leap to start your own business?

I wanted to work with as many artists as possible and help them grow in their careers!

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

I started from the bottom, literally as an Intern at The Island Def Jam Music Group in the digital marketing department. I worked my way up to the head of the department working with musicians such as The Killers and Shawn Mendes.

Fast forward to today, I’m the founder of JV Agency, a marketing company handling campaigns for all levels of musicians and genres. Now I lead and advise some of music’s biggest artists of all genres, I help grow careers for some of the most talented musicians today using an artist-focused marketing approach to growth.

I also love to mentor young women in the music industry and help pave the wave for the future leaders!

Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

I didn't! When I began my company, it was by pure serendipity and by “doing favors” for artists that I’ve known for years.

It was luck and hard work that has given me the ability to follow my dreams and to get great at what I love doing. I was able to make a career out of something I am passionate about and work becomes so much easier and purposeful.

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 started my business without a plan, which knowing what I know now, I wouldn't recommend! I have always used word of mouth to get clients so that has really been my strategy, having a good reputation and word of mouth, delivering results, and that has gone as planned!

We always learn the most from our mistakes, share a time with us that you made a mistake or had a challenging time in business and what you learned from it?

One thing I have learned from past mistakes is when to ask for help. I can't do everything by myself and I have learned to hire my weaknesses. That's why it's so important to have a team that you trust and that you can learn from as well. My advice would be to not be afraid to ask for help.

What is the accomplishment you are the most proud of to date?

I'm proud of all the albums and campaigns I've been a part of. I have had the opportunity to work with some amazing artists throughout my career and whenever those songs come on, it always brings a smile to my face! I'm also very proud of the work my team has accomplished in just the few years that we've been a company!

When hiring for your team, what is your go-to interview question? Please share any hiring tips you can share from your experience?

I ask what artists are they currently listening to? I would say define the job Before Hiring an Employee, sometimes we know we need help but don't really spell out exactly what you are looking for in a candidate, that way when you find it, you'll know they will meet your expectations!

How has your business or industry been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic?

It's been a tough year for the music industry and everyone in general, music venues and all shows, events, etc of course have not been possible, but hope of things opening up is around the corner!

What's next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

Over the next few years, my business will still be steadily helping artists to become successful. Helping others has been the goal from THE START and I will continue to do so by implementing bespoke campaigns for each artist.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned in 2020?

This is something I've always said, time is the one thing you can't get more of. We can always get more money, more possessions, more everything, but we can't get more time. This past year, really showed us that time is a limited resource. Don't waste it on people or things that don't add value to your life and don't make you happy! Enjoy the precious time we do have!

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were first starting your business?

Nobody is successful alone. This is why I think asking for help is one of the things we often take for granted and we should be more open about doing this.

How have you managed to stay grounded this year?

I've kept a routine, it's easy to be at home and want to stay in bed longer, or watch another tv show, but maintaining as much of your pre-COVID routine as possible can provide a sense of comfort and control during these unusual times. While life feels chaotic right now, especially if you have to work from home, a routine that feels somewhat familiar will provide everyone with structure and a sense of security. I've managed to have a routine where I end work and spend time with family. It's very important to maintain a work/life balance especially since we are working from home!

Do you believe in work/life balance? What are some of your best tips?

Absolutely! Especially this past year where our homes have become our workplaces. It's important to take breaks, stop working at a specific time, make a to-do list and get significant tasks done for the day so you feel accomplished. Those are things that work for me, so I think my best tip is to find what works best for you so you get things done in a timely manner and have time for your personal life. Everyone is different, so finding what gets you motivated is the first step to having a work/life balance.

What's something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I gave up coffee a while ago, and now all I drink is tea!

What are your top 3 tips to stay productive each day?

Get at least one important thing done each day that will help your business move forward. Take Breaks throughout the day. Turn off any distractions!

What does being an Entreprenista mean to you?

An Entreprenista is someone who inspires and motivates others to achieve their passions. Someone who mentors the future leaders and is happy to share knowledge and support those around them.