In this episode of the Grow a Small Business podcast, host Michael Denehey interviews Viv Conway, co-founder of Girls Get Off, a sex toy company that has generated nearly $2 million in revenue with a team of five. Viv shares her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of normalising female pleasure, and the innovative marketing strategies that have helped her business thrive in a traditionally taboo industry. Tune in to hear how Viv is changing perceptions and creating a supportive community around sexual wellness.
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Michael delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice.
And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions:
What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business?
Viv Conway, co-founder of Girls Get Off, highlights that one of the hardest aspects of growing a small business is overcoming societal taboos and perceptions around the sex toy industry. She emphasises the importance of normalising conversations about female pleasure, which has historically been stigmatised. Additionally, she notes that navigating market competition and ensuring a positive customer experience are significant challenges.
What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most?
Viv Conway highlights "The Big Leap” by Gay Hendricks as her favourite business book. She appreciates its insights on building a successful business through continuous innovation and validated learning, which have been crucial in her entrepreneurial journey.
Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business?
Viv Conway recommends podcasts and online resources for entrepreneurs growing their small businesses. She emphasises engaging with content that normalises taboo topics like sex and pleasure. Additionally, she suggests platforms offering practical advice and strategies for niche markets. These resources provide insights into innovative marketing techniques and community building, crucial for business success.
What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business?
Viv Conway recommends that her favourite app at the moment is Slack... If you could implement one thing that would improve your efficiencies, I'd highly recommend Slack, particularly for remote teams.
What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business?
On day one of starting Girls Get Off, Viv Conway would advise herself to embrace the journey with confidence and authenticity. She would emphasise the importance of normalising conversations around female pleasure and not being deterred by societal taboos. Additionally, she would recommend focusing on building a supportive community and leveraging humour in marketing to create a welcoming environment for customers exploring sexual wellness. Finally, she would encourage staying adaptable and learning from feedback as the business evolves.
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Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest:
Exercise is the number one most important habit for small business owners – Viv Conway
Sometimes you're the only person who puts limits on yourself – Viv Conway
Understanding exactly what you want from a new hire before bringing them on board is crucial – Viv Conway