This is an exclusive interview with Anna Stella, Marketing Expert, BBSA.
Could you please tell us a bit about yourself and your journey in the world of startups and entrepreneurship?
My journey to founding BBSA is as unique as the company itself. While I initially secured funding by winning a TV show, BBSA’s success is rooted in our dedication to clients and passion for marketing. In 2022, we introduced a 24/7 business model, offering around-the-clock marketing support—a unique edge in the industry. Our focus on quality outsourcing allows businesses to access specialized expertise while reducing operational strain. With a diverse team working globally, we stay ahead of industry trends, delivering exceptional value to our clients.
Many aspiring entrepreneurs struggle with identifying the right business idea. What advice would you give them for finding a problem worth solving and building a business around it?
I always recommend starting with your skills, interests, and strengths. Think about what you’re good at and what you enjoy doing—then remove the specific ‘widget’ or product from the equation. For example, in outsourced marketing, someone might say, ‘I love sales and working closely with people.’ That could easily translate into something like mobile screen-door repair, even though it might not be what they initially envisioned. The key is focusing on what makes you thrive and being open to opportunities that might not seem glamorous initially. Sometimes, the most unassuming ideas align perfectly with your strengths and become successful ventures.
Building a strong team is crucial for any startup’s success. What strategies have you found most effective in attracting and retaining top talent?
Attracting and retaining top talent as a small business can be challenging, since you may not have the brand recognition or budgets of larger companies. But that doesn’t mean the experience is second-class. The key is finding people who flourish in smaller, more unstructured environments and have an entrepreneurial mindset. They value flexibility and want to grow with you. What truly makes a difference is clearly communicating your vision, strategic direction, and how committed you are to helping them grow in their careers. When people see the potential for personal and professional development, they’re more likely to join and stay for the long haul.
Marketing plays a vital role in the growth of any startup. What marketing strategies have you seen be particularly effective for businesses in the early stages?
One of the most underrated marketing strategies for startups is networking. While many early-stage businesses focus heavily on digital and content marketing, networking is often the primary driver of growth for successful small businesses. Building genuine relationships can lead to client referrals, partnerships, and recommendations. Networking is more than just making connections—it’s about establishing trust and creating opportunities for collaboration that can significantly advance your business in its early stages.
Looking back on your journey, what advice would you give your younger self just starting out in the world of startups?
If I could advise my younger self starting out, it would be to fully commit and understand that building a business requires more than just a 9-to-5 effort. You have to step outside your comfort zone and be willing to take risks you never imagined. I’ve had to make decisions that pushed me far beyond what I thought I was capable of, and those were the moments that helped me grow the most. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to plan thoughtfully—know what you want, but also make sure you enjoy the journey. If you’re not passionate about what you do, no amount of money will make it worthwhile, and you’ll dread going to work every day. Build something that excites you, something that makes the long hours and challenges worth it.
What are your predictions for the future of entrepreneurship, and what trends do you see emerging in the startup ecosystem?
I’m particularly excited about the growing trend of marketing outsourcing. As the marketing landscape becomes more complex and increasingly geared toward individual needs, businesses are adopting multi-channel strategies to stay competitive. Many startups, especially those expanding into international markets, often lack the in-house expertise or resources to navigate these complexities. By partnering with established global marketing agencies, they can immediately access specialized knowledge and talent. This approach not only reduces the strain on internal teams but also allows companies to focus on their core operations. In the future, outsourcing will be a key strategic tool, helping businesses scale more efficiently and enhance their global presence.
