We've Launched Alabama's First Statewide Business focused Twitter Chat - #BizChatAL This week we talked to Katelyn & Gary of @SecondaryAdv about how to create a business based on passion. Katelyn & Gary share their take on the steps they’ve made to developing a thriving business based on their love for the outdoors.

We found inspiration in the happy moments. It was easy to pinpoint that we enjoy; family festivals and outdoor activities. We adore Huntsville and taking day trips. We decided our vision was to digitally share our experiences with other families. #BizChatAL

Who is doing something similar? What organizations do you admire? How are they using the tools available? Social media, websites, blogs, photography, and marketing. You have to research your market/target audience whether you are selling goods or writing blogs. We love following our inspirational pages like @visitnorthal @Go2HuntsvilleAL @OurValleyEvents @rocketcitymom @hikealabama @MTLakesChamber @BeautifulAlabam @TweetHomeAla @smartereveryday #BizChatAL

We knew what & why - we needed the HOW! We knew this would be a side project along with our full-time careers so we set attainable goals. Small consistent steps towards our overall vision. It was important to create a plan for success - not something out of reach. #BizChatAL

Scheduling is key!

Post (X) times a week on social media, engage with followers for (X) minutes a month, reach out to (X) people for collaboration ideas, write (X) new articles in a month, capture (X) photographs for social. Find the best structure for you, write it down (even digitally), and give yourself feedback when tasks are complete. Everyone enjoys marking things off their list or “checking” a box. This is key for analyzing results. #BizChatAL

Is this a one-person job? What are your strength and weaknesses? What trait could someone else bring to the table that could really push your organization to the next level? In our case, my husband and I team up for @SecondaryAdv. Our strengths are very different which is why it works so well! I take the photos and write the words, but he can create the adventure and unusual experiences that lead to the best content! #BizChatAL

Use your champions! We all have people who are cheering for us to succeed. Let them share your story, your product, your business. Momma, friend, cousin, neighbor - they start a solid foundation of “followers” for you to share your story with. When promoting make sure all content clearly represents who you are as an organization. Try using “one-voice” even when there may be multiple people speaking for you.

We love to use relatable honesty as our tool. #BizChatAL

Thank you, Katelyn & Gary!

Want to be part of the statewide #BizChatAL conversation? Feel free to reach out to sstahl@scottsboro.org if you would like to join us as a featured guest, or hop in the chat every Thursday on Twitter from 2-3PM/CST on our twitter account: @mtlakeschamber or by following the #BizChatAL hashtag.

Biz Chat 020 How to Create a Business Based on Passion