Insights from Kendra of Kay’s Concepts
In this episode of Maternity Leave, I had the pleasure of chatting with Kendra, a marketing strategist, founder of Kay’s Concepts, and girl mom. This episode is packed with practical advice for mompreneurs and any parent trying to get tasks done while working from home.
Kendra’s Unconventional Career Beginnings
I love how Kendra’s career trajectory is a testament to the unexpected paths that can lead to success. After college, she worked as a server, which wasn’t at all aligned with her educational background in Trust and Wealth Management. However, considering the instability in the banking sector at the time it offered her financial stability. This early experience in the service industry honed her with exceptional people skills.
From there, Kendra transitioned to radio sales, where she developed a knack for connecting with businesses and selling ad space. This experience opened doors for her in the realm of social media management, a field that was just beginning to gain traction.
Key Takeaways:
- Adaptability is Key: Kendra’s shift to serving tables and later to radio sales demonstrates the importance of being open to new opportunities.
- Skill Transfer: The people skills Kendra developed in her early jobs were crucial in her later success in sales and social media management.
- Non-linear Paths: A successful career doesn’t always follow a straight line; sometimes detours provide invaluable experience.
The Transition to Social Media Management
Kendra’s transition into radio sales, despite her lack of formal sales experience, was a pivotal moment. She thrived in this role, learning the ropes of advertising and client management. Her transition to social media management began by chance in 2014, when businesses were just starting to recognize the marketing potential of platforms like Instagram.
Key Takeaways:
- Embrace New Trends: Kendra was able to capitalize on the early days of social media marketing, demonstrating the importance of staying ahead of industry trends.
- Client Education: She recognized the need to educate clients about their target audiences and marketing strategies, ensuring they understood the fundamentals before diving into social media.
- Continuous Learning: Kendra’s willingness to learn and adapt to new social media trends has been crucial to her success.
Tips for Aspiring Mompreneurs
Kendra’s advice for aspiring mompreneurs is rooted in her own experiences of trial and error. She emphasizes the importance of understanding your business idea, researching your target market, and taking action.
Key Takeaways:
- Research and Action Balance: While research is vital, Kendra warns against “analysis paralysis” and advocates for a balance between research and taking actionable steps.
- Start Small: She advises starting with small investments, like taking a course, to build confidence and knowledge before committing fully.
- Client-Centric Approach: Understanding and serving your clients’ needs is essential. Letting client feedback shape your marketing strategies can lead to better outcomes.
Navigating Networking and Collaboration
Networking has played a significant role in Kendra’s business growth. She emphasizes the power of building relationships both online and offline.
Key Takeaways:
- Expand Your Network: Leveraging both local and online networks can open doors and provide support.
- Collaborate and Grow: Collaborations can introduce you to new audiences and offer fresh perspectives.
- Community Support: Building a community of like-minded entrepreneurs can provide moral support and practical advice, invaluable for solopreneurs.
Balancing Motherhood and Business
Kendra’s insights into balancing motherhood and business are both practical and inspiring. She highlights the importance of routines, self-care, and realistic expectations.
Key Takeaways:
- Routine Creation: Establishing a consistent routine can help manage the chaos of balancing work and family life.
- Self-Care is Crucial: Making time for self-care, whether it’s a short nap or socializing with friends, is essential for maintaining mental health.
- Support Systems: Utilizing family, friends, and community resources can provide the necessary support to juggle multiple responsibilities.
Practical Parenting Insights
Kendra’s parenting strategies are both creative and practical. She emphasizes the importance of fostering independence in children and being upfront about your needs as a working parent.
Key Takeaways:
- Foster Independence: Teaching children to be self-sufficient, even in small ways, can provide valuable work time for parents.
- Open Communication: Being clear with your children about your work schedule and needs helps set expectations and boundaries.
- Flexible Scheduling: Adjusting work hours to accommodate children’s needs and using pockets of free time efficiently can enhance productivity.
Embracing the Mompreneur Journey
Kendra’s journey is a powerful example of how perseverance, adaptability, and continuous learning can lead to entrepreneurial success. Her story offers invaluable lessons for mompreneurs looking to navigate the complex landscape of balancing business and motherhood.
By embracing new opportunities, continuously educating oneself, and leveraging both personal and professional networks, aspiring mompreneurs can build successful businesses while maintaining a fulfilling family life.
Watch the full interview and share your biggest takeaway in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe for more empowering content and exclusive interviews with industry leaders.
Access Kendra’s FREE resources- https://kaysconcepts.com/marketing-resource/
Connect with Kendra-
Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/kaysconcepts/