Jennifer Cooper

What did you want to be when you were a child?

I wanted to be a teacher. While I didn’t become a teacher in the traditional sense, I’ve found myself teaching through mentoring others, guiding fellow leaders, and sharing insights with women and industry professionals. My career experiences, have led me through so many lessons and today I feel it is part of my purpose to pass those lessons along to others struggling or at a crossroads in their career. So, in a way, I guess I did become a teacher after all!

In moments of self-doubt or adversity, how do you build yourself back up?

Being a woman leader in a field where women make up less than 10% of the total workforce means I often face adversity. When doubt creeps in, I remind myself that I bring grit, intelligence, and value to the table. I know that if I work hard, respect my craft, and keep learning, success will follow. I rely on affirmations like, “Yes, you can,” “Why not?” and “If he can do it, so can I.” These self-talk phrases help me refocus and move forward with confidence.

What is your favorite thing about your workspace?

I’ve made my workspace an oasis—feminine yet sophisticated, filled with quotes and art that represent my journey. Since I mostly work from home or on the road, I need a strong, inspiring place to land, and my workspace provides exactly that.

What are you proud of in your business?

I’m proud to have reached seven figures in revenue within the first few years by diversifying my strategies and services. I’m also proud of letting my passion guide me toward this business. It wasn’t something I was searching for—this business found me. Even in the darkest days when I feel alone as an entrepreneur, working 15 hours a day easily, there is a drive in the pit of my stomach and an undying curiosity to keep building something different, something better, and bringing only the best people and clients into my universe.  We are doing just that! I want to be different. I do not want to be a run-of-the-mill ad agency and we are not that.

Has learning from a mistake ever led you to success?

Absolutely. Every mistake has been a stepping stone, and I make sure never to repeat the same one twice. Failures push me to ask “why” and uncover the lessons hidden within them. If you don’t pay attention, you won’t grow. I’ve learned that every closed door eventually opens a better one—it just might not happen on your schedule. Patience is key.

What are the top three things someone should consider before starting a business?

First and foremost, set your expectations correctly and understand that building a business takes time. Second, unless you have significant startup capital and can hire a sales team right out of the gate, realize that whether you like sales or not, you are now in sales. And lastly, know that you will initially handle every part of the business, but growth requires moving beyond execution into entrepreneurship. That’s the stage I’m currently navigating—uncertain, uncomfortable, and exciting all at once.

Jennifer Cooper is the Founder and CEO of Evolution Marketing. A full-service marketing firm specializing in marketing services for the building industry.

Reprints of Boss Babes Magazine with Jennifer Cooper on the cover can be ordered here.