You could say that Jenny was born to be an entrepenuer. From a young age she spent hours in her room setting up pretend businesses and developing their branding. She always had an interest in both art and the technical side of computers, which made Web design a perfect fit. In 2007, she took the leap from leading a team of 40 employees to set off on her own and Task Crate was born.
Jenny loves the spirit of the entreprenuer. One of her favorite quotes is, "Take the leap and the net will appear," by John Burroughs. Jenny built Task Crate on the foundation that you can create any type of future you imagine. You can have it all! Balance, happiness and growth. She believes if you take action toward your goal, there is no stopping you from having an amazing life.
It's very important to hold yourself accountable for everything you do.
How did you discover your current job?
I was working full time in the corporate world and had just had my first daughter. I knew there was something better out there and that I could find a way to have a career that I love, contribute to the community, and most importantly, be there for my family. Instead of waiting for something to come to me, I jumped ship and created my own possibility, which was Task Crate, a Web design and Internet marketing company.
What is your typical day like? What types of things do you do in your job?
My typical day is waking up -- playing with my daughters and hanging with my husband, getting a run in and then buckling down for a day's work. My day can range anywhere from meeting face-to-face with current and prospective clients, to designing new website concepts to spending the day coding out a new site.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? The most challenging?
The most rewarding part of the job is helping entrepreneurs see their dreams come to fruition online. I feel blessed to meet and work with so many amazing, inspiring and courageous business owners. There is a strong business community here in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area and I truly enjoy being a part of it.
A wise man once told me -- the best part about being an entrepreneur is that you don't have a boss, the worst part about being an entrepreneur is that you don't have a boss. It's very important to hold yourself accountable for everything you do and track your own performance as if you were working for a company. This can be challenging at times, but since I have been put this into place I have seen tremendous changes and positive growth in my company.
What is the biggest personal sacrifice you have to make because of your job?
SLEEP! Working in a deadline-driven technology environment, I have spent many days working from sunrise to sunset to sunrise. It can be challenging to balance it all at times. I am thankful that I have the opportunity and flexibility of hours to make it work.
What is one lesson you've learned in your job that sticks with you?
Don't be afraid to ask for help. You can't do everything by yourself and will go a lot further with others along your side.
What do you feel is the biggest challenge for women today, particularly females in your industry?
The biggest challenge is that there are not enough of us! Women have such a wonderful eye for design and color that I think the Internet would be a more dynamic, colorful and beautiful place if more women were involved.
Who are your role models?
My role models are my parents -- they molded me to be who I am today. They are both very loving, smart and motivated people. I always have looked up to them and all they do!
What are some of the rules you live by?
Always see the best in others. People have so many great things to offer in this world -- it's best to greet everyone with open arms and an open mind.
What advice do you have for girls who want to be in your industry?
Don't get stuck behind the computer -- owning a Web design business is about more than being a good designer or coder; you must be a people person too! When it comes down to it, happy customers and strong client relationships are what will grow your business.
Where do you see yourself five years from now?
I will still be running Task Crate, on a larger scale.
I will be very involved helping young women see that they can have it all; they can raise a family, have a successful career, and most importantly, have a very happy fullfilled life!
What are three things you love aside from your job?
Waking up with my family in the tent while camping -- nothing feels cozier!
Running on the trails on a cool desert morning!
Absolutely more than anything in the WORLD -- my family!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I truly believe if a person stays, commmited, focused and takes daily action toward their goals -- their dreams will come true! Good old fashioned hardwork and determination still goes a long way in this world.