Exclusive | Sam Ross, Owner of Sam Ross Designs, Talks Turning His Hobby Into a Business
“Success isn’t ‘one size fits all.’ It’s subjective. I see success as having peace in your life, being healthy holistically, and being happy...the intangible things”
By: Omar Cook
This week’s “Who’s Hot?” Influencer of the Week is Sam Ross, an award-Winning Entrepreneur, creative professional, philanthropist, and Mental Health Advocate. Ross is a full-time entrepreneur and owner of Sam Ross Designs, with clientele that reaches coast to coast.
Ross graduated from Southern University and A&M College in 2012, where he earned a degree in Mass Communications with a concentration in Public Relations. It was during his time at Southern that he decided to pursue a profession in graphic design as he began designing graduation invitations for his friends which eventually turned into hundreds of graduates over the course of time and a self-sustaining business.
Ross spent time perfecting his craft through employment with the Louisiana House of Representatives, The Drum Newspaper (Internship), WBRZ-TV, and the Southern University Ag Center. He has received several awards for his work including being awarded by honored by The Rouge Collection as one of 28 Black Leaders and Influencers in Baton Rouge, LA , "Outstanding PR Alumni" by the Southern University and A&M College Department of Mass Communication for outstanding alumni achievement in Public Relations and was also announced as one of the Southern University Alumni Federation's Top 40 Under 40 in 2019.
Aside from his professional achievements, he has made it is duty to give back by creating the Sankofa Scholarship, a scholarship geared towards awarding first-time college students enrolled at Southern University and A&M College.
We talked with Sam Ross in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
What sparked you to start your business? How did the idea come about?
Sam Ross: I started out designing as a hobby around the age of 11. I would spend much of my time designing faux album art, magazine covers, and staying up through all of hours of the night dreaming up all kinds of stuff. This is before I even knew what graphic design was, but I am a person of faith and believe that was God putting me on path to my destiny way back then.
My business started forming around 2010 when I was in undergrad at Southern University. I started out designing graduation invitations for a few friends and that ended up growing to the point where I became one of the main go-to people for graduation invitations.
I see these things as my beginnings.
What advice would you give to young people looking to start their own business?
Sam Ross: I would say discover what needs you would be dedicated to providing solutions for. Also, list your “why(s)” and always keep them in mind.
What are some of the necessary skills that you've seen are needed to run a successful business?
Sam Ross: In my experience, skills that have helped me greatly are organization, discipline, resiliency, faith, and optimism. You won’t always “feel like it,” but that’s where discipline comes in. You may face rejection and be misunderstood. That’s where resiliency comes in. Some things may scare you and make you fearful, but that’s where your faith and optimism come in. Now, organization...well, that speaks for itself. It’s absolutely necessary to operate effectively and efficiently personally and professionally.
What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them?
Sam Ross: I would say having mentors early on is definitely something I would recommend those starting out to do. Having wise counsel helps a lot. The Bible speaks about this. You can learn from others’ experience. I didn’t necessarily do that when I first started.
How do you define success and what motivates you?
Sam Ross: Success isn’t “one size fits all.” It’s subjective. I see success as having peace in your life, being healthy holistically, and being happy...the intangible things. Being able to be there for my parents as they grow old motivates me. Also, I know there are many people that are watching me. So, I guess we can say inspiring others motivates me.
What are the overall goals for your business and what purpose do you want it to serve?
Sam Ross: The overall mission (or goal) of my business is to produce effective graphic design and branding that presents people professionally, creatively, and in excellence.
How do you build a successful customer base and how do you go about marketing your business?
Sam Ross: Relationships. People do business with those they trust. You must always keep that in mind. Also, word of mouth is still a major thing. If their homeboy or best friend recommends my services, more than likely, they will inquire. Why? Because they trust their friend who trusts me.
I am a stickler for just marketing as your authentic self. People appreciate that. It’s relatable. You don’t have to create this larger-than-life persona. Just be you.
What makes your brand stand out from others in your niche?
Sam Ross: Going back to the last question, I would say my relationships with people helps me stand out. It’s more than just projects with me. With many of my clients, there’s a special connection there.
I also have a distinctive way I design. I would also say I’ve done a great job of branding myself personally, which makes it easier for people to support my business and other endeavors.
Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful entrepreneur?
Sam Ross: Love this question. I always say that there is “no secret formula.” The Bible lays it out as plain as day for us: faith and works. That’s the formula.
Have the faith. Do the work.
What is your favorite aspect of being a business owner?
Sam Ross: I would say being able to help others get their dreams off the ground is one of my favorite things about what I do.
What sacrifices have you had to make to keep your business running?
Sam Ross: “Dedication, hard work.” Shout out to Nipsey! Many times, days may be long. You will be frustrated sometimes. That’s why passion must be present. It will help keep you going. You have to be really responsible with your time as a business owner as well. Time is money and those are two things you shouldn’t waste.
What company or business do you admire most other than yours and why?
Sam Ross: I admire the late Steve Jobs and his ingenuity. Apple pretty much rules the [tech] world.
Where do you see yourself and your business in 10 years?
Sam Ross: In 10 years, I expect to have a full staff. We will be operating as a firm that does brand consulting and have in-house creatives. I’m so excited about that part of my dream.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
