How To Be Taken Seriously As A Young Entrepreneur

Let’s be honest, chances are if you’re under 26 your opinion might not be taken seriously in the corporate world. As a recent graduate and ‘newbie’ to the corporate workplace, I know that many of us are patronized or face credibility issues based on age. We are often bombarded with common remarks like;

“What are you - like 20?”

“You don’t know what you’re talking about” or

“You should do this work for exposure!”

It’s safe to say that us young millennials often have to prove ourselves that age doesn’t define our ability to work. Whatever the case may be, not being taken seriously can be a frustrating obstacle to overcome. 

Even though it’s totally not right to judge someone based on age and gender, it is a unfortunate reality that many young hustlers often face. I’m very fortunate to work in an agency where the people are open-minded, extremely progressive and totally kick-ass. It is also one of the most reputable agencies in my home town (Ottawa) that continuously proves that its talented staff stands out in a competitive design community. While I’m learning so much about the design industry, I’ve realized that age does not factor in success, it’s the ability to deliver and bring the heat.

That being said, my side hustle in freelancing isn’t always as easy. I’m a 23 year old graphic designer who is relatively new to the industry.  How can you really be taken seriously as a young entrepreneur, where success is measured by age or ‘paying your dues’ and potentially plenty of years of failure? As daunting as this whole process might be, the one thing I’ve  learned is that the key to success is passion. While the possibility of failure is a constant thought in the back of my mind, I’ve managed to push that negativity aside and focus on my passion - design. Yes I know, “follow your dreams” or “find your passion” is corny, but it’s true. If you have no passion for what you do, nobody else will either. 

Along with passion, there are other tools to establish your credibility and to be taken seriously in your industry, regardless of your age. Here are a few of the career tips and lesson I’ve learned thus far.

Research
Do your homework kids! Regardless how much you may already know, you can never stop learning. For me, the design industry is always growing and evolving, staying up-to-date in trends and technology is necessary and can only benefit you in the long run.

Back it up
Having a great business idea is one thing, supporting that idea with a plan is another. Write a business plan and get familiar with that market. Once you begin forming your research into a plan it can be turned into viable business, resulting in being treated as a serious professional.

Have confidence
Nobody wants to leave their business in your hands if you don’t even believe in yourself. It is so important to show you are knowledgeable in your industry and have value to provide.

Understanding your brand and your audience
Know your shit. This tip goes hand in hand with the one above. As important as it is to have confidence, make sure you have something to back up that ego. Know your brand in and out, and get the knowledge you need to have those answers memorized. Your target audience is what you need to focus on, understand who and what your business is all about.

Just do it
Like the great shoe company says, “Just do it.” Once you’ve done everything you believe you need to begin this venture, go for it. Go pitch your business or idea - allow your confidence to stand out. You won’t get anywhere without putting yourself out there and giving it all you’ve got. 

Now I’m certainly no entrepreneurial guru, but these tips have definitely helped me out a ton. Personally, I believe that your business should always be a work in progress. You should never be satisfied and say, “That’s good enough.” Keep striving for better and show your commitment to this venture. Remember to be patient and that success doesn’t happen over night. I’ve gone three steps forward - one step back a few times in my short career, but in the end I pick myself up, dust myself off and get back on track. Good things take time, just work hard and the rest will fall into place.