Barbara Weltman is the Founder of Big Ideas For Small Business, Inc.
What led you to start working in digital/media publishing?
I started with a print newsletter Big Ideas for Small Business® nearly two decades ago, after having worked with other print newsletters. But I switched to digital publishing in 2006 for several reasons: cost (print/postage saved), ability to make corrections after initial distribution, and, most importantly, demand by readers to have a digital product. Then, through my website, I’ve expanded my publications, including my Idea of the Day®.
What does a typical day look like for you?
The day starts with reading about developments overnight. Because I focus primarily on tax, financial, and legal matters for small businesses, I subscribe to various special daily publications on these topics. Other than this initial daily exercise, I don’t have a typical day and that’s what’s so great. I may spend hours writing, talking to a reporter who calls about a new development, answering inquiries from business owners or does research. I may get out to a local business event or meet with small business owners. I never know what the next day will be like.
What’s your work setup look like? (your apps, productivity tools, etc.)
My work setup is a desktop computer and two screens, plus a reference material I use regularly. While most of the tools I use are online (and I’m out of business when the Internet goes down), I still find some print products to be invaluable.
What do you do to get inspired?
The subject matter keeps me interested and I love sharing information with small business owners. I’m challenged every day to learn about new tools and rules important to small business owners and to share this information in an understandable way. I’ve been at this for a long time and can honestly say I’ve never been bored a single day.
What’s your favorite piece of writing or quote?
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” —Benjamin Franklin
What is the most interesting/innovative thing you have seen on another outlet other than your own?
The new thing I’ve been introduced to is Kwickie, which is an app for answering interview questions in a brief video on my iPhone.
What’s the passionate problem you are tackling at the moment?
My problem is the same as most publishers — circulation. I’m passionately working to grow my readership.
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Do you have any advice for ambitious digital publishing and media professionals who are just starting out?
Don’t be fooled by how easy it is to publish digitally. You still need to have great content, grow your audience, and monetize your efforts.
