Source: xoberlin, Leonor von Salisch
Leonor, a resident of Berlin for over a decade, founded xoberlin five and a half years ago. xoberlin stands as a pioneering creative agency specializing in producing visually striking photo and video campaigns meticulously crafted for sustainable brands. Operating from a dynamic perspective, Leonor's agency adopts a lean business model, collaborating with freelancers as needed, ensuring adaptability and cost-efficiency.
DESCRIPTION OF YOUR BUSINESS/SERVICE?
xoberlin embodies innovation and creativity in the sphere of sustainable branding. Leonor's keen eye for storytelling through visual media drives the agency to craft campaigns that go beyond mere promotional content. Instead, these campaigns serve as narratives, championing the ethos of sustainability while showcasing the brand's identity and values.
MOTIVATION FOR BEING AN ENTREPRENEUR
Leonor's definition of entrepreneurship centers on bringing ideas to fruition and finding satisfaction in their realization. She sees entrepreneurship as an avenue for personal fulfillment rather than solely a financial pursuit. Her approach embodies a holistic view where passion intertwines with work, transforming her hobby into a source of income. Leonor's entrepreneurial journey is marked by an integrated life-business approach; she perceives her business as an extension of her personal life, fostering a holistic perspective toward entrepreneurship. Regarding essential competencies for entrepreneurs, Leonor underscores the significance of unwavering commitment, persistence, and an insatiable drive to exceed oneself, advocating for striving beyond 100% in efforts to deliver. Learning from failures and mistakes emerges as a crucial skill, emphasizing the importance of reflection and open-mindedness to broaden one's entrepreneurial horizons. Being studious, proactive in problem-solving, and taking responsibility for the business's entirety are attributes she holds paramount. Moreover, Leonor advocates for confidence in the unpredictable nature of business, fostering trust in the process despite inevitable deviations from plans. Flexibility is key; she likens entrepreneurship to surfing, adeptly navigating various aspects of managing a business and being kind to oneself amidst challenges. Leonor emphasizes the indispensable role of interpersonal skills, stressing the importance of honesty, reliability, and loyalty in nurturing relationships, a vital aspect for fostering productive collaborations and sustaining successful work relationships.
THE JOURNEY SO FAR - CHALLENGES FACED & HOW YOU HAVE OVERCOME.
"If an idea sparks you or if there is an idea you are really inspired by, don't be afraid to put it into the world, because if you are inspired by the idea and share it with the world, people will see it and see it as an authenticity.” - Leonor von Salisch
Leonor's journey as an entrepreneur with xoberlin has been a testament to overcoming significant challenges, notably in client acquisition, sales, and negotiation. Initially, securing projects proved daunting. With guidance from her boyfriend, also an entrepreneur, she discovered the power of building genuine relationships with potential clients. Initially drawing clear lines between personal and professional, she evolved to foster a more amicable bond with clients, engaging in social outings to nurture pleasant work relations. Trusting in her product and maintaining transparent discussions played a pivotal role. Leonor's approach wasn't forceful; instead, she showcased her portfolio openly on her website, allowing her work to speak for itself. Negotiation posed a distinct challenge, especially when balancing content creation with financial discussions. Sometimes employing an accountant to handle negotiations, she grappled with setting fair prices and managing client expectations. Over time, she learned the importance of valuing her time, recognizing that aligning with clients willing to pay fairly ensures mutual respect. Despite these challenges persisting as the toughest aspects of her business, Leonor views them as opportunities for continual growth and development, pushing her boundaries as an entrepreneur.
BENEFITS YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED/POSITIVE IMPACTS?
xoberlin's impact is multi-layered. The agency has carved a niche by catering to smaller sustainable brands lacking resources for extensive marketing. Its lean operational structure ensures flexibility and cost-effectiveness while delivering top-notch content, fostering trust and loyalty among clients. Additionally, Leonor's journey as an entrepreneur has provided her with invaluable experiences, enriching her skills and outlook.
PLANS & VISION FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
"Take your time, don't rush it. Embrace the process and just do it"- Leonor von Salisch
Leonor envisions a future where xoberlin expands its footprint, fostering deeper collaborations with sustainable brands not only in Germany but also across borders, especially in the Netherlands. Her ambition is to propel the agency's evolution, consistently innovating to remain at the forefront of delivering intelligently crafted, sustainable content. She aims to navigate the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship while upholding xoberlin's commitment to excellence and sustainability.
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