Today we’d like to introduce you to Dawna Jarvis.
Dawna, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
As the 7th child out of 8 (later in life, I would find my dad and add 5 more siblings), my journey into “adulthood” started young. Ever since I can remember, I knew there was more to life than I could imagine. Throughout my childhood, my siblings and I led pretty independent lives, but the summer of 8th grade was especially memorable to me. That summer started with a note from my mom saying something like, “Going down to New Jersey with Doug to look at houses shouldn’t take long. Danny’s at his dad’s (Danny’s my little bro). Rents paid & food in cabinets.”
Since my siblings were all out of the house, it was just me left at home. This was a summer I’ll never forget. Only a few people close to me knew I was living alone, as I didn’t want to risk children’s services finding out. My mom came back about 2.5 months later. I don’t recall the exact circumstances, but I guess we were evicted from the apartment we lived in and had to move across the city.
Being able to live alone at 14 years old was a blessing. It made me realize how unshakeable and strong I am. I’ve been described as fiercely driven, extremely passionate, intense, loyal, successful, and dedicated. There is no doubt that all those qualities I possess today originated that summer. I knew I wanted more in life, and that summer confirmed I was the only one responsible for making that happen. I truly feel lucky for what other people may see as a misfortunate situation because our “misfortunes” usually hold our biggest strengths.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Before my work as a business growth strategist, I was a salon owner. From the moment the salon doors opened, it became a thriving business. It was evident my drive and determination were paying off. But I had a challenge. No matter how financially successful the salon was, I had this daunting black cloud feeling over me; something was missing. I couldn’t explain it, but I felt incomplete or like there had to be something more.
Due to Covid, I closed my salon, and my family and I moved from NH to Los Angeles. At that time, I felt lost and uncertain of my future, but at the same time, I felt like I needed to figure out that feeling of “there has to be something more.” It quickly became apparent that what I enjoyed most in the salon was building my team. I was a natural-born leader and had a passion for helping others grow. This showed in the success of all of my stylists, most of who were 6 figure earners. Without the experience of closing my salon, I would never have been able to pivot my career and do what I’m genuinely passionate about.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a business growth strategist, I teach entrepreneurs how to tap into their businesses and see things differently. I usually fit into your business like a missing piece to a puzzle. I have a unique ability to connect media, marketing/SEO, and mindset in a way that creates clarity and momentum in your business. My teachings cover everything from how to pitch yourself to the media to how to maximize your digital footprint and how to squash detrimental limiting beliefs. These strategies can be applied to any business adventure, whether today or down the road, making them invaluable.
Recently a client came to me with a “dream” of having an interior design business. She had no online presence and 100 followers on IG. Using the strategies I teach, she was able to leverage the media, quickly turning her dream into reality. In less than 12 weeks, her interior design business, Melanie Thomas Interiors, was featured and syndicated by the press more than 23 times resulting in,
Gained 3,800 new (highly engaged & organic) IG followers
Gained credibility with Google and raised authority
Established a presence within the community
Established her digital footprint that will organically benefit her SEO and business for years to come
Some clients I’ve used these exact strategies with include Clothing Brands, Permanent Makeup Artists, Hairstylists, Photographers, Salon Owners, Content Creators, Real Estate Agents, and many other small business owners. While I am based in Thousand Oaks, California, I also work remotely with my clients, which is convenient.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I firmly believe in having a mentor or coach at all times. We all need support and that person to help keep us accountable and keep our momentum going. I’m lucky that my mentor is my best friend, Danielle Sabrina, owner of Tribe Builder Media. She has been a mentor to me for over 20 years!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dawnajarvis.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dawnajarvis4/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hairbydawnajarvis
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/dawna_jarvis
Image Credits
Kiley Shai Photography
