From the origin story of their businesses to the ways they allowed themselves to grow as entrepreneurs, our Female Founders series gives a view into the lives of successful women from a variety of industries. Join us for today’s feature, Sara Beth Boland, offering a behind the scenes look at some of what she has done to succeed so far, advice for those starting off, and plans for the future.
What’s your business and how did you get started?
I started Personality Hire in 2018 when I was needing a way to bring in a little extra income. I had done light design work as part of my past marketing roles, but I found myself disagreeing with the way a lot of work was done in the agency setting. I wanted to fully own the creative process – from visuals to copy. At the time I had founded an organization, an online e-zine focused on providing opportunities for women in all bodies, regardless of size (Pop Culture Positive – it still has a digital footprint!) – and it had attracted the attention of the Multi Service Eating Disorders association. They were my first client! From there, I started scouring Craigslist three times a day, looking for anyone in need of social media or copywriting. I was lucky enough to get the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus and NYT Best-Selling Author Jacquelyn Mitchard. After that, we were off to the races. At the time I lived in Dorchester. Fast forward to today I am living on the North Shore, working out of my own 500 sq. ft office in Beverly! I am proud to say that I truly work with clients whose work I believe in – and get to be a part of so many projects. They say you can’t be a generalist any more, but I have found that to be so far from the truth. I’ve helped construction companies build their customer experience journey, CRMs and websites. I’ve helped small crafters make the evening news. If you can click on it, I can probably help you make it happen!
What is one thing you’re really proud of that you’ve created or accomplished?
I have sustained a business that runs fully off of word of mouth referrals. There is no shortage of work – and I am so grateful.
What’s your favorite thing about being a business owner?
Being able to choose which clients I work with. Choosing which contractors I work with. Not being stuck in business relationships that feel icky. Going to the doctor when I need to, picking my own medical plan – the list goes on.
What is the boldest thing you’ve ever done in business?
Believe in myself when I had no business doing so.
What’s one thing you’re currently excited about for the future of your business?
Hiring people I really believe in. Continuing to create a work environment that doesn’t feel like work, but more of a canvas for co-creation.
What’s your best business advice you would give to other women?
Always proofread whatever ChatGPT gives you. Make sure it makes sense. And unrelated: Don’t let them see you cry.
Connect with Sara or Personality Hire:
instagram.com/yourpersonalityhire
instagram.com/sarabethboland
https://personality-hire.com/
