Meet Kristin Marquet, CEO & President of Marquet Media LLC DBA Marquet Communications
Tell us about your business.
My business is a boutique digital public relations, copywriting and branding company based in New York City . We represent fashion, beauty, health and wellness companies throughout the United States . Our market is primarily fashion and beauty based retailers – online and offline.
Please tell us what being a business owner means to you and why you became an entrepreneur in the first place?
When I graduated from college, I worked as the head of marketing for a law firm in NJ. Even though the experience provided me with so much knowledge and propelled my career into action, working for someone else was not really the course I wanted because of the politics, 9 to 5 commitment and limited vacation time. I wanted to be in control of my destiny and pave my own future, which is how I started my first company at the age of 26.
What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why?
My greatest business influence was my father. He was a jewelry designer and retailer. He was self-employed and owned several jewelry stores while I was growing up. In fact, I was raised in a home of entrepreneurs so I always had that encouragement and support. My parents taught us that self-employment was a lifestyle choice. It enabled us to create our work around our lifestyle, not create a lifestyle around the rigid 9 to 5 work day.
What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?
My largest professional accomplishment is the publication of my first book “Her Little Ways: The Women’s Inspirational Guide to Life.” The book is exclusive and available on the website, www.beautiesonthego.com.
What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?
My best advice is that no matter how difficult things get along the road of self-employment, keep your head up. Make wise decisions and don’t throw in the towel if things do not work out the way you wanted the first time. Being a business owner means being resilient and flexible.
What has been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your business?
My most effective marketing program has been using public relations, specifically bylined articles. I write for several different publications on marketing, small business management, and public relations and have received a decent flow of publicity and clients.
What one thing have you learned as a small business owner that has served you well over the years?
I have learned that I can’t do everything by myself. When I need help, I ask for it. I delegate responsibility to my employees and freelancers.
Are there any resources or tools you’d like to share with other small business owners that have helped you run your business?
Yes, in fact, I use www.entrepreneur.com , www.beautiesonthego.com, www.businessweek.com , and www.womenonbusiness.com as resources for running a business. WE Magazine has also been a huge resource more recently.
What do you do for fun/relaxation?
I am very big into physical activity, so I like to go on 4 to 6 mile runs after a long day at the office. Outside that, I enjoy traveling, spending time with my boyfriend and family.
What is Number One Business Goal you plan to accomplish over the next year?
My number one goal for 2010 is to start working with Fortune 500 companies in the fashion, beauty, and health industries.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
If you are just starting out in business for yourself, be patient, read everything from “Think and Grow Rich” by Napolean Hill to “The Art of the Deal” by Donald Trump. Surround yourself with like-minded and resourceful people. Always use common sense and follow your intuition when making decisions.
In addition to your website, how else can our readers connect with you online?
Company URL: www.marquet-communications.com
Social Media: http://beautiesonthego.ning.com/group/onlinebusinessowners
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kristinmarquet
