The best businesses grow where desire meets need. Jennifer Mitchell, owner of
Superb by Design, began designing Web sites for fun in 1997. She never guessed that her hobby would carve a new path for her career.
Last November, Mitchell was laid off from an HR job in downtown Cincinnati. A friend, whom Mitchell had helped with a corporate website, encouraged Mitchell to craft websites as a full-time vocation.
"I started networking in January, just to find out if there was room for another Web design firm in Cincinnati," said Mitchell. She built her clientele while sending out resumes, but soon became confident that Superb by Design could create the lifestyle and job satisfaction she craved.
"I love what I do. Being my own boss is wonderful, and you meet some really great people."
Mitchell builds up her contacts with online and face-to-face networking. She is director of the Cincinnati chapter of
Like Minded Moms, a women's business community, and leads an online business group on Meetup.com. Mitchell also attends
Women's Idea Network,
New Media Cincinnati, and several business collaboratives.
Web design has seen a lot of change since 1997, providing Mitchell with challenges and chances to grow.
"Many people are still designing websites the same way we were eight years ago - before BlackBerrys. Today's small businesses need a site that's accessible no matter what platform you use - from a cell phone to a three-monitor station. YouTube is now the second largest search engine. With people wanting video on their sites, I've had to learn more about incorporating it."
Superb by Design currently operates in Mitchell's Florence home, though she's considered opening a separate office as the business expands. She subcontracts with a photographer, a graphic artist, and a copywriter, and may hire administrative help in the next year.
Writer: Elena Stevenson
Source: Jennifer Mitchell, Owner, Superb by Design
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