Teresa B. Howell is an educator residing in Durham, NC. Originally from Boston, Massachusetts. She decided to make her literary appearance in 2015, after years of writing personal journals and songs that she kept solely to herself. In July of 2015 she stepped out boldly on faith to make use of her pen for everyone to read. She has proven herself to be a creative, unique writer of fiction Christian romance and suspense. Read our interview with the lovely Teresa below…
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
I am a mastermind at being strategic with development. I realized, once gaining confidence, that I had the skill set already inside me to start a company.
Tell us about your business.
I created a publishing company after self-publishing my first book. “Walking in Victory International” attracted 9 authors after 2 months in business. I now have 6 authors on the roster and it is evolving into more than just publishing.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
For every individual that joins my mailing list on teresabhowell.com, they will receive 10% off their next purchase.
List awards/certifications/accomplishments.
I am a certified teacher and school administrator. I have obtained awards such as teacher of the year, national board certified teacher, and best selling author.
Where is your business based?
Durham, NC.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
Research of the literary industry was the first plan of action.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
Social media and word of mouth has been huge for my company.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Marketing. I am finding it hard to tap into different market areas since there are so many individuals writing and publishing books now. It was difficult to get my name out there the first few months but now it’s smooth sailing.
How did you overcome these challenges?
Television, radio, and free give away.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
Family and friends push me daily.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
I have the heart for people. I am willing to empower others to become successful no matter what.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
Research a company before obtaining a service in the literary world.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Research until you drop. Knowledge is everything.
What is your favorite business tool or resource?
Social media and talking to people face to face.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @teresabhowell1
Twitter @teresa
Facebook www.facebook.com/Teresabhowell
Website Teresabhowell.com
Email info@teresabhowell.com
Hashtags #Teresabhowell #ThatChurchLife #WalkingInVictoryInt
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
“What the dead know” by Laura Lippman and “Kindred” by Octavia Butler.
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
Additional marketing and building a bigger platform.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
- The book is being turned into a play. Auditions start in January.
- The walking in victory academy is underway-stay tuned.
- Part 2 of “That Church Life” is being completed by March.
- One of my authors is completing a book and it should be completed by the spring.