I recently attended a Zoom conference called “Level Up: What’s Your Hustle?” The conference featured a group of young, dynamic entrepreneurs from different parts of Baltimore City. These men and women, ranging in age from their late teens to their late 20s, were incredibly impressive, offering insights on entrepreneurialship, managing their businesses and building their brand.
Here are a few takeaways from this impressive group:
First Off, Their Approach Is Different
While some of these panelists were in high school or college, others were working full-time on their business. And while most of them value advancing their education, waiting around for a four-year degree was not in everyone’s plans. They needed to make money now. Some of them had to pitch in at home or take care of their own expenses. They had to hustle.
Some Had Worked for Others, But They Hated It
Several panelists told stories of trying to work “for the man,” but they realized they weren’t cut out for it. Sometimes family or school obligations got in the way of working a “normal” schedule. Like a lot of people with an entrepreneurial drive and spirit, they wanted to build their own opportunities. One even pointed out, “What’s the point of me working several hours a week on someone else’s dream. That’s crazy!”
They Value Brand Awareness
In a time when a company’s political position can win or lose them customers, these pros were well aware of the importance of brand awareness. One panelist, an artist and graphic designer, said his personal brand is his professional brand. “What you put out there is what you get,” he said. Another added that, at the end of the day, you are your brand. “People will look at your actions and decided if they want to support you.”
They Are Strategic
Imagine juggling school while chasing your dreams. Now, imagine juggling high school while chasing those same dreams. One entrepreneur is leaving for college in a few weeks and has already worked out her strategy for managing her company in Baltimore while expanding into Georgia, where she will attend college this fall.
They Work—and Pivot—to Fill a Need
Another youth entrepreneur, who is already on her third business, took advantage of the pandemic shutdown to create an experience delivery service. When people couldn’t get to an event or activity, she packaged the event and delivered the experience to her customers.
They (Already) Give Back
One panelist started her smoothie business three years ago and is already planning to start a nonprofit where she teaches other youths to become entrepreneurs by working in—you guessed it—her smoothie shops.
They Share Their Knowledge
Yes, although they are still learning the ropes, a few of the panelists are already teaching others how to start and grow a business. They take part in Wednesday Wisdom on social media and hold entrepreneur workshops.
They Have Bad Days
One panelist shared that she suffered from depression off and on. “When you’re an entrepreneur, it’s hard to deal with a mental health issue when your company’s success rests squarely on your shoulders,” she offered.
They Model Good Business Habits
One entrepreneur says he pays close attention to details when he visits other businesses and mimics the good characteristics he observes. Conversely, he also looks out for bad customer service practices and tries to avoid those mistakes.
They Define Professionalism
One panelist said that professionalism doesn’t look only one way. “I may wear my big T-shirt and jeans and I expect to be treated just like I am button-down,” she said, adding that she respects everyone she deals with throughout the course of her business day and that she expects the same in return.
Finally, They Find Creative Ways to Recharge
One panelist takes cat naps while being driven from meeting to meeting around the city. Another keeps her Zoom filter on blur so she can sneak in a quick pedicure. “People don’t know what I’m doing behind the filter,” she joked. Another entrepreneur strings together several long, exhausting days with little sleep and then shuts down for a full day to recharge. They all mentioned taking breaks from social media, which is a time stealer.
These entrepreneurs are ride or die for Baltimore, the city they love. They are working to create jobs and opportunities for other youths. They recognize that the city’s reputation has taken a few hits, but that does not deter these young professionals.
Baltimore is in good hands.
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