Web URL: http://www.oomphwebdesign.ca
In Business Since: 2011
Type of Business: Website Design and Branding
Works: 100% virtually
LinkedIn
Facebook Page
Twitter @OomphStudios
Ruth: Welcome to the blog, Kelly. Oomph Studios is a business name that catches my attention. Share with my readers what this business is all about.
Kelly: Oomph Studios is a Canadian-based web design and branding company. We specialize in giving our clients’ websites and brands a face that will speak to their customers. Designs are developed with our clients’ customers in mind, giving them an edge that helps them stand out from their competitors.
Ruth: How did you get your start in this career choice?
Kelly: I started my first business, Virtually There VA Service, in 2007. It was my first baby. It is a Virtual Assistance business and it was in operating that business that I discovered my love for design. I taught myself to build website strictly in order to build my own site. My clients must have liked it because they kept approaching me to design their websites. At first I would say, “Well I can do this for you, but you should know I’m not a web designer.” The more sites I designed, the more I loved it and the more I wanted to learn about it, so I started reading and studying books on web design and the rest is history.
Oomph Studios is a business that I happily fell into while growing my VA business and I can truly say I love it and wouldn’t have it any other way.
Ruth: It’s been a good place to fall into. You have serious talent, Kelly. I added the web URL for both of your businesses at the top of the page. Let’s be sure everyone can find you at either website. Describe those who have influenced you along this journey.
Kelly: I wouldn’t say I had one mentor in particular, but rather a group of mentors. When I first started in Virtual Assistance, I discovered The Virtual Assistant Network and I can honestly say that if I hadn’t discovered that website and especially the forum that I probably wouldn’t be where I am today. I was really surprised at how helpful the other VAs were. There was no sense of superiority from the senior VAs and no feeling that you were talking with your competitors. It was really a welcoming place where you learned from experienced professionals, and you, yourself tried to help whenever you could.
Ruth: Yes, we’ve known each other for many, many years. VAnetworking has been a God-send for those wanting to get a taste of what being a virtual assistant entails and to begin some long-lasting friendships. What advice would you give to someone thinking about a virtual career like yours?
Kelly: Whether they want to become a Virtual Assistant, or a Web Designer, my first piece of advice would be to learn. Read anything and everything you can your hands on to learn the ins and outs of the industry and especially learn the technical elements. With a career in the online world, there are so many things that you’ll need to learn depending on your area of specialization. Clients will come to you because you are an expert in your field, so really make yourself an expert to stand out from your competition.
For aspiring Virtual Assistants, I really can’t stress enough what a great place The Virtual Assistant Network is for learning and peer support. Joining is one of the best things you can do as a new VA.
Ruth: Exactly. Be a sponge and learn, learn, and continue to learn some more. The web is ever changing bringing new opportunities for working with clients and new requests for services. What suggestions do you have for those who would like to work with you?
Kelly: The first place to look before even speaking to a web designer is their portfolio. In looking at a designer’s portfolio, you can see if you actually like the work that they do and can picture a site that you might have created by that designer. If you don’t like the portfolio, then don’t waste your time – you can skip the interview and continue your search.
Next, you’ll need to have a consultation with a designer to see if your personalities mesh. You want a designer who is open to your ideas, but knowledgeable enough to tell you when your ideas won’t appeal to your client base, or won’t make the site look professional.
You also need someone who is responsive and will deliver on time and on budget. The best way to find out if your designer fits the bill is to get references. Past clients will be able to let you know what it was like to work with the designer and if it’s worth your time and money to do so.
Ruth: Great points, Kelly. Any last thoughts to share with our readers?
Kelly: There are so many advantages to being a virtual service provider, but it is a lot of hard work. Many people think that owning a business means making your own hours and taking vacation whenever you want. Although you can make your own hours, those hours are usually long and often difficult. Although it’s not an easy road – if you love what you are doing it will be well worth it.
Ruth: It’s been so good talking with you, Kelly. I really appreciate you being free for this interview.
There are times when you need a website live quickly and you don’t know where to turn. Check out Kelly’s Website in a Week package. It’s an affordable way to get your business online quickly and easily. The Website-in-a-Week package includes installation of WordPress along with a premium WordPress theme and traffic tracking tools so that clients can monitor how much traffic the site is generating. The site can consist of 6 or less pages (including a blog page if applicable).