Boss Lady is a term of endearment for the woman who not only writes our checks but helps us grow.
Clients call her Terri, her kids call her mom, and I’m not sure what her husband Ralph calls her. To us, she’s Boss Lady. And this is the uncut interview.
Why Did You Start A Marketing Agency?
It was really somewhat of an accident.
I used decades of marketing experience to start a freelancing career when the company I was working for full-time lost their start-up investment. I had absolutely no expectation early on that it would evolve into the current-day Marketing Refresh.
I knew I wanted to help small businesses with their marketing programs through strategic guidance, project management, copywriting and more.
After creating a network of talented copywriters, designers, WordPress programmers, SEO and paid search specialists to work in collaboration with me, I decided the best thing for clients and overall consistency was to evolve the freelance model into a full-service agency offering.
What Does A Typical Day Look Like?
My day is similar to other CEOs. It’s a constant juggling act to make sure no ball ever comes close to hitting the ground.
I concentrate on client delivery and ensure what we’ve committed to is done on time and to the highest quality.
I focus on managing our team to make sure their personal skill development and projects are on track and offer my support and guidance where it’s needed.
Finally, I handle day-to-day operations. I do things like managing the accounting department and ensuring HR responsibilities are completed.
Through planning, obsessive communication with our team, and constant reprioritizing, we’re able to get everything done.
How Is Marketing Refresh Unique?
We don’t create programs prioritized around enhancing our portfolio or winning awards. Everything we do is to benefit our clients and support their business initiatives.
We’re an idea factory, not an ego factory. And more of a family than coworkers.
Through open collaboration, taking the time to understand business goals and pushing each other to improve our skill sets, our agency provides a high-quality service focused on relationships and delivery.
Simply put, every one of us is committed to doing great work for our clients.
Where Do You See Marketing Refresh In Five Years?
I believe that things like increased revenue and profitability come as a result of keeping focus on other areas. So I will continue to prioritize delivering high quality work, nurturing relationships within our team to maintain our tight-knit culture, and encourage a collaborative culture.
I see us continuing to work with small businesses who know even a small team can do amazing things.
I like the fact that we’re supportive and enjoy each other’s company. I want that to remain in 5 years.
What Advice Would You Give To Those Looking To Hire A Marketing Agency?
Companies want an agency who’s done the work before and can do it within a reasonable budget.
Finding a good fit is often overlooked, but it should be a huge priority because you’ll be working with this team on a regular basis.
Companies should look for an agency that aligns with your values and the way you do business.
We all have to work and make a living. Why not spend it with people who can do a great job and who you enjoy being around.
Get to know us, and see if we’re the right fit.
