Today we’d like to introduce you to Connie Kroskin.
Hi Connie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I will never forget the day I chose to go into marketing. I was in art school studying both fine art and commercial art and decided to follow the commercial art career path. I do still paint, and it’s a hobby business.
Most of my career was as an Art Director or Creative Director at some top ad agencies and Fortune 100 companies, and I’ve worked with many types of clients including B2B, B2C, and Retail. Since 2010 I’ve been in my own consulting business focusing on small businesses. I love them because they are so engaged in the process.
I’m also a big proponent of diversity and inclusion. I love volunteering with non-profits and working to advance women in small business. I currently volunteer as a mentor with Women Venture. I want to empower these ladies to make it happen as a business owner. I’m also the Board Marketing Director for the Volunteer Well in Canada where our focus is on helping individuals who want to help other individuals.
I grew up in Armonk, New York, and we moved to MN when I was a teenager. Those NY roots helped make me a direct communicator – which is a good thing in a marketer! We want simple, direct, concise communications. Amiright?! Yes! I am!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Is any road smooth?! I made steady career progress throughout most of my career as an art director and creative director.
In 2010 I was laid off. This was due to the housing market crash which many industries felt. Fortunately I had a few people that came to me for independent marketing work, so I decided to develop that as a business. It was a struggle at many times, but thankfully referrals and networking kept me going. Now most of my business comes from word-of-mouth and online. It’s been a struggle to take the leap into new ventures and go in new directions but it’s always been worthwhile.
I was skeptical about AI at first but as it’s maturing, it’s easy to see how beneficial it is. I love AI. It can do so much for a small business if you know how to work with it.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I provide full-service marketing for small businesses. I’m fully hands-on and do the development and design work myself. I specialize in setting up a strong marketing foundation – websites, social, email, video, etc, benefit-oriented messaging, and local SEO tools that work amazingly fast and well for small businesses.
I’ve accomplished a lot in my career. I have only, ever worked in marketing and advertising. Work I did on Campbell’s Soup was highlighted in P.O.P Magazine
I led the Branding Council for a multi-billion dollar line of business. I’m a Past Vice President of MN Mensa, and I’m an Award-winning artist.
What sets me apart from others aside from my experience and knowledge is my strategic focus on building relationships. Content is benefit-oriented and is true to the brand. I do most if not all the work myself, and my solutions are scaled for small business budgets – including some new SEO tools that act fast and are one-and-done. I don’t charge ongoing maintenance fees because I don’t see the justification for them. And I like to start with a complimentary meeting so we can learn more about each other and take it from there.
I’m most proud of my volunteer work. I have a servant leadership style, and have taken on everything from Board Consultant for the Volunteer Well in Canada to Board Chair at SCORE South Metro and even Vice President of MN Mensa and the Plymouth Arts Council. I also mentor those who are just starting out in their own business through WomenVenture in St. Paul, MN. This work feeds my soul.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Coloring and drawing. I would immerse myself into it and would find peace and contentment there. That’s what led me to art school.
Pricing:
- Complimentary info meeting
Contact Info:
- Website: https://conniekroskin.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conniekroskin/
- Other: https://conniekroskin.com/schedule/
