K. Zulene Adams- Z Promotions- Episode 11

Cosmos & Commerce Podcast

Summary of Podcast: K. Zulene Adams- Z Promotions

Introduction:

• Host: Janis Francis of Humble Crate Artisan Marketplace.
• Co-host: Michele Cook of Body Ache Escape Massage Center.
• Guest: Zulene, the force behind Z promotions and president of NAWBO Columbus.

Zulene's Journey to Z Promotions:

• Started Z promotions 17 years ago.
• Started Z promotions to tailor company culture and align with personal values.

About Z Promotions:

• A promotional products company with an international footprint.
• Focuses on understanding the client's mission, vision, values, and objectives.
• Aims to make businesses noticeable and memorable.

Challenges and Solutions:

• Initial challenge: Access to capital.
• Solution: Leveraged personal savings and investments.
• Overcame the housing crisis by restructuring and focusing on marketing during downturns.

Partnership Dynamics:

• Zulene and business partner Andrew have complementary strengths.
• Zulene is the visionary, while Andrew is analytical.

Impact of Promotional Products:

• Example: Helped a landscaping company reduce turnover by providing lunch boxes for employees.

Benefits of Joining NAWBO:

• Personal development through mentorship.
• Business growth through networking and relationship-building.

Advice for Entrepreneurs:

• View professional services (like CPA, attorney) as investments, not expenses.
• Focus on growing the business and delegate other tasks.

Certifications and Growth:

• Zulene emphasizes the importance of certifications like WEBANC and NMSDC.
• Such certifications can open doors to larger contracts and opportunities.

Promotional Product Strategy Advice:

• Know your brand identity and values.
• Create a cohesive strategy that aligns with long-term brand goals.
  Links
  Z Promotions
  WEBAC ORV- certifying agency for Women-Owned Business
  NMSDC- National Minority Supplier Development Council
  VSOB - Veteran Small Business Certification
  NAWBO- National Association of Women Business Owners
  NGLCC- National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
  Traction by Gino Wickman

Zulene's Top 3 Pieces of Advice

1. View Professional Services as Investments: Zulene emphasizes that entrepreneurs should view professional services, such as hiring a CPA or attorney, as investments rather than expenses. This perspective can help businesses make informed decisions and prioritize growth.
2. Focus on Growing the Business: Entrepreneurs should concentrate on the core aspects of growing their business. By doing so, they can delegate other tasks and responsibilities, ensuring that they are not overwhelmed and can maintain a clear vision for their company.
3. Know Your Brand Identity and Values: When it comes to promotional product strategies, Zulene advises businesses to have a clear understanding of their brand identity and values. This knowledge can help companies create a cohesive strategy that aligns with their long-term brand goals.

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