4 minute read
SPARKLING ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Sharon
SPARKLING ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Sharon’s story inspires us to dare: dare to be adventurous, dare to live and dare to breathe. She shows what we can achieve when we push ourselves beyond our comfort zones.
Can you please tell us about you?
My name is Sharon Rusike and I am the owner and Creative Director of SPI Media group, a Boutique Digital Marketing Agency in Edmonton that specializes in helping new and established brands develop innovative and creative marketing strategies. I am also a podcast host, YouTuber and I’ve started a new corporate luxury gift box business called “Luxe Life Gift Boxes” that’s launching in April 2021.
How did you get into business?
I got into business because I grew up in an entrepreneurial family. My parents ran their own businesses and so did my siblings, it only made sense for me to join in on the family tradition. My family inspired me to start my own business and to have something for myself that I could look at and be proud to say that I created an opportunity for myself to learn what it takes to run a business from the ground up. I started my first business at the age of 19 and it was a cleaning company. I learned so much from that experience and about how much hard work and dedication it takes to be a housekeeper, I also learned about how to be a great leader and manage a team. I also started a concierge business where I had the opportunity to work with my local airport in Yellowknife. Although I’m no longer in these industries I’m forever grateful for the opportunities I had as I decided to move to Edmonton and pursue a career in Creative Marketing. Creativity has always been a passion of mine and I love taking something from a concept to a physical or digital product.
What drives or powers your inspiration?
The driving source of inspiration is from my need to be an example for my nieces and nephews. I want to be an inspiration for the younger generation to see that no matter your strengths or weaknesses you can always make it and achieve whatever you dream of. The business world
tends to glorify the extroverted entrepreneur and I’m here to show that it doesn’t matter how shy, introverted or underlooked you are, there’s always room for you on the table. The underdogs always come out stronger!
What services do you offer?
I like to think of my services as more of an experience. Every business I run always has an emphasis on luxury. I want to offer only the best when it comes to my creative services. I offer a range of experiences from web design, creative branding, brand stylizing, one-on-one consulting, content creation and so much more that you can find on my website www.spimediagroup.com.
Why is your business important to your community?
My business is important to my community because I bring my perspective and my creativity everywhere I go. I seek to understand what my clients needs are and to exceed their expectations. I never want to pride myself on knowing everything, I’m always keen to learn more and from anyone. Having business owners in our community that are always open to learning and listening is a hard skill to find and I pride myself on being a great learner and listener. I am also very confident in my abilities and know that I can get my client to where they see their business going and even further than that.
What are your tips for anyone wanting to start a business?
My number one tip for anyone starting their business is to never fear failure. A lot of times as starting business owners we are so scared of the thought of failing and sometimes succeeding. You have to believe that the worst thing that can happen is that it doesn’t work out but at least you tried. My second tip is to “believe in your sauce” or “drink your own Kool-Aid” as the kids say. The most important aspect of business is to have confidence. Confidence in your service or product. Believe in what you offer and what you charge, know your value and never let anyone determine or change that for you. Also learn to listen and take constructive criticism, not all opinions are good ones but take the ones you know are coming from a place of help.
Where can we find you?
If you’re looking for me, you can find me on all social media platforms as @sharonfrusike, Youtube: Sharon Rusike.