Engage, Connect, Grow – Ovations Digital
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Christina Hager, President of Ovations Digital, located in Leawood, KS, USA.
What’s your business, and who are your customers?
We are a social media and digital strategy business. We help individuals, businesses, brands, and organizations use social media STRATEGICALLY to reach their business goals. We serve both B2C and B2B businesses, as well as startups and nonprofits.
Our clients range from e-commerce, brick and mortar stores, fashion, wellness, fitness, professional services, SaSS, technology, construction, change management, health care, nonprofits, the arts, and C-Suite and board leaders.
Tell us about yourself
I began my career as a professional opera singer and spent almost ten years singing professionally all over the United States. At the end of the day, either singing or marketing and social media are about the same things: Connection, Communication, and telling a great story. Without this, businesses might still survive, but they definitely won’t’ thrive.
I love helping individuals and businesses learn how to use social media, and connect it with their very real business objectives and goals.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Within two years, I had been voted a Top women-owned business in Kansas City. Within three years, I had been voted a Small Business superstar in Kansas City, and within three years of incorporating, I was part of the Forbes Communication Council and began writing articles for Forbes about social media.
However, I feel my greatest accomplishment is building a completely virtual team and providing part-time jobs to those who wish to have a flexible, autonomous career with work/life balance.
What’s one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
You have to wear all the hats! Just earlier, I was having a discussion about my finances, what it looks like to raise rates for clients, or when to give a raise to your team members. These are hard decisions, and as a business owner, there are not many people you can discuss this with.
What are the top tips you’d give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have vision, passion, and practicality.
- Develop a network of colleagues, team members, cheerleaders, stakeholders, etc. This may look like other business owners, but it may be people from family and friends all the way up to trusted C-Suite advisors.
- Don’t be scared to refer business to other people, even your competitors! Sometimes my greatest leads come from competitors who know I can better serve a particular client. Your competitors are not your enemies, especially if you are a consultant or in the professional services industry. Knowing your competitors and getting friendly with them may help you in the long run.
Bonus tip: Learn a LOT about a lot of different industries. It will help you in your job.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Don’t forget to take time to read, relax, and practice meditation, exercise, or time with family and friends. Finding some kind of outlet and balance will ultimately make you a better business owner and leader!
