“I love to get to know businesses inside out, their vision, problems and culture, but the best part is seeing the development and growth after implementing my strategies and tactics.”
With over ten years of experience in the marketing and design industry, Karina Hilton of Karina Hilton Marketing understands the value of a detailed marketing strategy. So when she noticed other businesses struggling to engage with their audience, Karina decided to offer her expertise.
Now at Karina Hilton Marketing, Karina helps her clients to create a marketing strategy that they are confident about. One-on-one consultations allow Karina to fully focus on the clients and their business as she guides them through her 7-Step Marketing Strategy Framework for Business Growth. Ultimately, her goal is for them to grow a strong brand.
In addition to running her business, Karina is completing an MBA program in Business Administration, with a specialisation in entrepreneurship and innovation. She has also been recognised for her work. Most recently, one of her articles was featured in the Business Women Australia’s premium magazine.
As her business continues to grow, Karina hopes to reach thousands of organisations and help them develop to their full potential. She would also love to work alongside a team of experts.
But for now, Karina will continue what she does best through providing quality support to her clients. And perhaps during her free time, she’ll enjoy some of her favourite activities – traveling internationally, dancing, walking and a good glass of Tempranillo wine.
Who’s your favourite entrepreneur and why?
I admire Steve Jobs because he lived 20 years ahead of us. He trusted his ideas, persisted and had a clear focus on where he was going.
Why did you start your business and what gave you the idea?
The idea came from seeing businesses and firms doing well, wanting to grow and scale but unable to do it because of a lack of time or skills. They didn’t want or couldn’t afford to have a full-time director in marketing strategy, but they wanted to make more strategic decisions and plan for sustainable growth. I started my business to work from home and be more present for my son, support him as he was starting school, and get the freedom to only work around school hours.
What do you enjoy most about running your own business?
I love to get to know businesses inside out, their vision, problems and culture, but the best part is seeing the development and growth after implementing my strategies and tactics. I’m able to pick my clients, I only take a few every month, so I can fully focus on really understanding, researching, strategising and planning in detail. To me it’s not about volume but more about quality and generating results.
What three pieces of advice do you wish you’d been given when you started?
- Get a mentor.
- Don’t forget to take care of yourself.
- Surround yourself with a supportive community.
What advice would YOU give someone thinking about starting a business?
Be clear on your ideal client, your target audience, their needs and wants, and position yourself in front of the right clients. Focus on your products and services and on making sure they solve your client’s problems. There is no point on doing marketing to attract clients if what you offer is only average.
What skills and knowledge areas would you recommend those starting out in business get acquainted with quickly?
- Marketing and sales.
- Basic account keeping.
What does your IDEAL business look like? Even if you’re not there yet, what would it look like if your business was ideal?
I would have a team of experts helping thousands of organisations grow every year through strategic planning and good management.
What problem does being a Member of the HerBusiness Network solve for you and your business? And, how?
I like how Suzi structures the monthly business focus, facilitates networking and collaboration.
