There are so many factors that can play a role in determining our results, performance and ultimately our success, but some factors matter more than others. We asked folks what they felt was the most important factor driving their success.

Emily Page | Business Growth Consultant & Executive Coach

The most important factor behind the success of my brand – is remembering the value to the end user every time I build a piece of my brand. It’s easy to build from OUR perspective as the entrepreneur, but we forget to write our whole business plan, offer, marketing material from the perspective of the customer too often when we get busy. The more clarity we have on our end user and what we want their experience to be, the more addicting and memorable product development, marketing, sales, and customer service we can create. Read more>>

EmCee’ Jazz’ Thomas-Jones | Tha1stLady – Online Radio/TV Personality

One of the most important factors behind the success of Platinum Media Network – #Streetz989ATL, is today’s technology, innovation, and accessibility. With the internet and cell phone as the driving force, bringing the information, interviews, and music as often as desired. As an Online – Mobile Ministry Broadcast Media Platform, we have the ability to be accessible through our “Music Publicist Platform,” and our “Mobile Media Coverage” – we offer several full service package. Read more>>

Todd Graham | Managing Partner at Mike Moon Studio

It’s hard for me to pinpoint a specific thing or event that got me to where I am today. It’s been a culmination of things I’ve experienced and people I’ve met along the way. I suppose if I were putting together a recipe for success, I would tell people to embrace every opportunity you are given early in your career, no matter how big or how small – There is always something to learn. Be kind, not only to others, but to yourself. Be honest. Surround yourself with like minded people. Never forget where you came from and the people that helped you along the way. I’m not the smartest man in the world, but I know I wouldn’t be where I am or who I am without a handful of incredible people that have inspired, lifted me up, and pushed me forward. When it comes to the success of our brand, I think part of it is offering a great product, but also approaching business in a human way. Genuinely caring about what you do, the clients you serve, and the team you work with day in and day out. Our company isn’t perfect, no company is, but I think we have the reputation we do because we treat all of our clients like family and we go out of our way to make sure their experience with us is one they will cherish for a lifetime. Read more>>

Kim Rickards | ManiFeast Queen & Professional Superglue

Intentionality. Being intentional (and thoughtful) has been the driver of my success. Intentionality opens doors at the right time and brings forth the right opportunities that lead to authentically providing value to the community I serve. Read more>>

Talia Lopez | Online Business, Marketing, & Mindset Coach

I definitely think that the number one thing you have to be content with as an entrepreneur is embracing your plan B. So often we get told that we can do anything we put our mind to, so we expect everything to go smoothly as planned. In reality, not everything we put our mind to is actually for us. Example, I went to college and did all the right things. I didn’t party, I studied hard, I had a double major, I worked two jobs to gain experience in my field, I had internships, I graduated early. I did everything you were supposed to do to get a good job, but I applied to over 75 jobs and got not 1 response. I thought if I set a goal and worked hard, I would get exactly what I put my mind to. Long story short, my mental and physical health started declining to the point where the only option I had was to start an online business. I became a dementia caregiving coach (dementia caregiving was all I knew back then) then after making that business successful, I became an online business coach to help women breakthrough and create the life of their dreams. With my online business, at the age of 21, I was able to hit my 1st 22k sales month in July 2020 (my 8th month in business) and impact women and caregivers worldwide. Read more>>

Kenja Pharr | Lash Technician, Lash Instructor & Boutique Owner

The most important factor behind my success is my passion. I feel in order to have a successful business and run a successful business you have to be passionate about it. It has to mean something from within sorta like you gave birth to a child. Most mothers who have give birth experience excitement and overjoy when it comes to their child. Thats the exact same feeling you have to have when it comes to your business that. you build ground up. When building your brand you have to stay consistent, every season you will see improvements on many things in many areas. Read more>>

Todd McPhetridge | CEO of Atlas Hawkins – Marketing and E-commerce Agency

I believe the most important factor behind my success has been tenacity. Never giving up. I have made a life out of making the impossible happen. My mental fortitude comes from my faith and knowing that no matter what happens, I will be able to persevere and overcome my circumstances. Over the years I have collected flying pigs because they represent the impossible. We have all heard the saying “When pigs fly” and that resonates with me and my approach to business. Read more>>

Symone Royale | Songwriter/Performer

Perseverance is the most important factor behind my success. I’ve grown to accept that nothing worth having comes easy, especially when it comes to creating art in your own lane. Read more>>

Eric Ryles | Photographer

The most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand is good customer service. The purpose of having good/quality customer service is to meet the expectations of my clients so that they are satisfied with the outcome of my services. My top 3 customer service skills is communication, patience, and dependability. These three qualities of customer service skills has helped me on this journey of success in my brand. Read more>>

Asia Asberry | Photographer & UX/UI Designer

The two most important factors behind my success are definitely my intense drive/initiative but also my patience with myself. When talking to others about my photography and business journey, I find myself repeating, “I always get what I want”. At face value, it sounds insanely pretentious but what I mean when I say that is if I want to learn a new skill, purchase a new piece of gear, or bring a certain concept to life, I go all in. I will not stop doing research, practicing, reaching out to others, and learning until I am able to bring what I see in my head to life. On the same token, even though I am tenacious about making what I want to happen happen, I have also learned to be patient with myself and to progress at my own pace. It can be extremely intimidating and discouraging to see so many other photographers doing super out-of-the-box things with their gear, shooting with important people, gaining followers, and making a ton of money, but comparison truly is the thief of joy. Allowing myself to be inspired by them and get to their level when I’m comfortable has allowed me to grow organically and make the learning process that much more enjoyable. Read more>>

Sean “Dj Conan” Collier | Professional DJ, Party Bus Business Owner, Licensed Massage Therapist, Serial Entrepreneur

The MOST important thing behind any venture is your “Why”….why are you doing what you’re doing? Why are you getting up everyday to face a world of negativity? Your “why” MUST be strong and something other than just making profits or not working. My “Why” has always been my children. Secondly, if there is something that would make you QUIT, don’t even get started. Most people have no idea the amount of doors the world closes in your face, you have to see your brand succeed and push it past their vision. Read more>>

Audrey Williams | Soul Singer & Actress

Authenticity. In a world of double mindedness many desire truth minus the grey area. I strive on not just embracing my truths but also being mindful to not be ashamed of my process. This Renaissance Woman understands that there is something instilled in her dna that forbids her from quitting! The success comes from p.u.s.h.ing (praying.until.specifics.happen). Read more>>

Onisha Wright | Event Planner & Decorator

For us, success is about accomplishing our mission. That mission is to provide best practices within the industry and building a sustainable, profitable business to support our family. Being able to visualize our success. Practice more than we preach. Communicate effectively in addition to being able to commit to our goals. Read more>>

Jarvis, Johnny, Robert Jordan, Prince, Greene | CEOwners

The most important factor behind the success of our brand is brotherly and sisterly love. The brand is bigger than us because it represents a strong family bond where no one gets left behind or left out. Structured to where we hold each other accountable for your actions or lack thereof. Solid to a point that we can all say that we have saved each other’s lives and turned our lives around collectively for the better. Read more>>

April Wright | Master Cosmetologist

The most important factor behind my success is having Great customer service! I strive to provide the highest level of customer to all of my clients. I communicate effectively to my clients about the services I provide and how an able to assist them. I listen to the questions and concerns of my clients to make sure I am able to provide a service that makes them happy. My great customer service and high level of professionalism has brought me many referrals. Read more>>

Dondre Anderson | CEO and Co-founder of Symphony Chips

The most important factor behind my success is my belief in myself. When I was growing up I was taught to put my faith in others and outside things such as; faith in the education system leading me to a better life, faith in the church I attended to provide me the spiritual fulfillment I needed. While both of these things are key factors but it wasn’t until I realized that I had no control over these systems did I seek to change. The problem is that I believed that the sky was the limit and even the sky had no boundaries. So I decided that I would aim at a career that offered me no limits and educate myself to that effect. So when I graduated, I made sure I was a leader in my field by having a degree in both Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering because one cannot survive without the other and I do not like only knowing one part of anything. I also decided to take control of my spirituality. Again imposing the thought of being limitless, the church I attended did not leave me feeling fulfilled so I sought out a different church one where my faith started within and propagated outward. Read more>>

Nathalie Armand-Bradley | Founder /Lead Designer of Mod Punch Designs

Mod Punch has a strong and unique value proposition that helps solve our clients needs. Consistently delivery on that proposition to the best of our ability has garnered us trust and is a major part to our success. Read more>>

Dj Tootz | Twin Female Djs

The most important factor behind our success so far is to continue having fun. Once you make what ever your passion is a job, its not fun anymore. Don’t think about money so much, because it will come. Just have fun, and keep going. Read more>>

Skitz Pittz | Rapper & Business Owner

The most important factor to my success is my belief in God. I don’t refer to myself as religious because I believe in all religions that preach doing good things so I prefer being spiritual. Without God none of the things that I have been able to accomplish would be possible. My belief in myself and God not letting me fail keeps me afloat. Read more>>

Brian + Lindsey Cowen | Contemporary Women’s Photographers + Business Coaches

I would honestly have to say that the biggest reason why we have seen success is because we are fiercely committed to authenticity. From our ad copy, to the way that we follow up with our leads, to the zoom calls we make and the sessions we do, every single aspect is fraught with authenticity. When we look at a person, whether it be in front of our camera or on the other side of the world via zoom, we see who they truly are and we are able to pull that out. What might come across as stiff and forced we see as shy and nervous. Those people need reassurance that they are amazing and we are able to take a picture, turn it around, and show them how amazingly naturally gorgeous they really are. What may come across as lashing out about the way that we approach our coaching with our photographer clients is really more like insecurities that need to be turned around so they can see how incredibly talented they are. We help people across the board see that insecurities are merely flashes of self doubt that are within them, not something that others actively see. Read more>>

Jamie Dennis | Business Owner & Baker

Truly, the most important factor behind the success of my company is the amazing Atlanta community that has backed it since day 1. People here really love supporting local. Until more recently (read:Covid), festivals and food events were a regular part of our business. Thankfully, we are able to safely continue at our local farmers market. The way the community here loves to come together, have fun, support small business, and to be able to have “regulars”, despite not having a store front, is really incredible to see. Read more>>

Tony Davis | Production Manager-Film and TV

Staying humble and prayer are the most important factors behind my successful career in the the entertainment industry. Read more>>

Traci Weisberg | Co-Owner of Glass Slipper Entertainment, Local Singer/Actress, and Speech-Language Pathologist

While there are many factors that have kept our little small business alive all these years, I believe that imagination and honest belief that dreams can come true is the most important factor behind our success. Without the pursuit of my own creative dream and passion to build this company, the support of many others to help me fulfill this dream, the clients who have helped financially support the dream, and the passion and imagination within all the local children whose dream is to experience the magic of their favorite princess spending quality time with them, I can honestly say Glass Slipper Entertainment would not exist. Read more>>

Jazmine Woodruff | Personal Chef & Caterer

The most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand is customer satisfaction, consistency, and transparency. I’ve worked in the customer service field throughout my entire professional career and the ability to not only meet but exceed your customer’s expectations can make or break your brand. I ensure that my work is consistent and I keep the lines of communication open and flowing. Read more>>

Tia Robinson | CEO + Founder of Vertical Activewear & Mindfulness Meditation Guide

Fully embracing and accepting where I am and what I have offer as an entrepreneur has helped me to not only succeed but enjoy my entrepreneurial journey! For me, entrepreneurship has been an exercise in self-realization, because self-care and self-love have been essential components in me reaching my business goals. I’ve found that holding space for myself and “watering my own grass” manifested the best and most authentic outcomes for myself and my customers and clients. Read more>>

Nishe’e Moore | Maternal Mental Advocate

I am not stranger to truth and I’ve found that people are drawn to that element of authenticity. My story, my journey, my aspirations, my failures and fears…. I’m open to discuss it all. No sugar coating no altering details to paint myself in a better light. That factor of transparency has cultivated the safe space that is Biscuits and Babies. It’s truly a community of black, millennial moms for black millennial moms. No judgment, no shaming just sharing for the intent to affirm women to be the types of mothers they want to be. Read more>>

Sabrina Lee | Body Contouring Expert, Instructor, Business Owner and Advisor

I believe that positive mental attitude, strong will and passion is the most important part of my success. I have been through a lot of though times, I’ve worked many jobs and my business has been through ups and downs and I could have never done it if I didn’t have these. Read more>>

Dominique Doyle | Make-up Artist and Beauty Coach

I believe the most important factor behind the success of my brand is my professionalism. There are thousands among thousands of people in the beauty industry here in Atlanta and over the years I have come to find out one of the main things that will separate a GREAT Make-up Artist from a OK Make-up artist (other than there skills) is their professionalism. The Artist who responds to inquiries within a timely fashion will get the job, the artist who shows up on time will get called back, the artist who has a process and customizes an experience for their clients will have a faithful clientele. So for me, it’s all about being professional and offering an elite yet personal service. I want each client to feel like a celebrity, because afterall I am offering a luxury service. Read more>>

Demetria Fitzgerald | Owner & Creator

I believe that the most important factor behind the success of my brand is authenticity. I create products that celebrate my Black culture. The songs, movies, and films that I love so dearly are loved by the Black community as a whole. Our customers are able to trust the woman behind the brand because they know that I’m not pandering to them. We’re family. Read more>>

Vanessa Gilbreath | Wedding & Events Vendor – Fine China Tabletop

I believe Luck, and of course preparation for said luck, is most important. I often chat with fellow vendors about how they get their leads and often it is random. However if one digs deeper one finds that posting to social media can create luck. Also a top of the line website is vital. Read more>>

Shannon Barron | Owner/ Operator/ Instructor

The most important factor behind the success of my business and the success of my brand is staying true to myself. With so many paint and sip concept companies out today, I have learned to stick to art and vibes that make me happy. I am naturally drawn to black art and I use my creative time as a way to relax and unwind. There was a time when I thought my preferences would limit my reach and my clientele. However, it has been quite the opposite. There is a current trend where many paint and sip companies provide a “trap and paint” experience. Guests listen to upbeat, up to date dance music which provides a fun party type vibe. While this style of artistry is needed and is popular, it is just not my thing. Instead of conforming to what is trending, I decided to stay true to myself and provide art classes that are mellow, relaxing and low key. For that reason, my customer base is comprised mainly of women that are looking to escape the everyday hustle and stresses of life. They are looking for a chilled out environment that allows them to take a pause and rejuvenate while fostering their creativity. Read more>>

Latasha Davis | Author | Speaker | Philanthropist

It’s all GOD! I know that can sometimes sound so cliché’, but it’s true. I would describe myself as being very ministry-focused and purpose driven; so, I believe it’s the marrying of His divine Will for my life, and the innate abilities He’s blessed me with. In being so focused on pursuing purpose, “Reset Mondays” was born. It’s not just a placeholder for a day, it’s true action. It’s about taking a “Sabbath”…resting, resetting, refocusing your mindset, and getting aligned/centered to tackle life head on again! If I hadn’t been on the grind and working so tirelessly in ministry, I don’t believe this concept (for me) could have been birthed. I had to experience being burnt out, depleted, confused, you name it! So when I say it’s ALL GOD, I truly mean it was through focused prayer, re-alignment, and His direction that I was able to push forward! That’s the secret to my success. Read more>>

Ricardo Wrice | Founder & CEO of the Leadership Blend Media Company

The most important factor behind my success is consistency. In Atlanta, media is everywhere! From podcast to webseries, you see a little bit of everything. Everyday, I hear or see a new show or podcast debuting. It became imperative, that I learned how to stay above the fray. It didn’t take long to discover that the most distinguishing factor is consistency! Particularly in the content creation section or creative space. The idea that your audience can depend on your content being on the same day, at the same day is vital. I have watched individuals start a show and in less than a month they have disappeared. Consistency is the hardest thing to maintain if passion isn’t present. As a result, I continuously remind myself that inconsistency is a dream killer and I’m too far in to fall victim. Read more>

Wesley “Alyx” Campbell | Photographer | Stylist | Fashion Designer | Director

Consistency. Staying true to my idea and the motive behind my image is what kept it going. Hard work pays off, you can’t skip the work it never works like that. Atlanta started to see the aesthetic and the imagery I was putting out which was stronger and more consistent than last year. Read more>>