Jennifer Gentry
Jennifer Gentry is a mom of two teenage boys, a wife, a Marketing Leader, and a Business Development Strategist. She also is an Avid Rancher.
She has nearly 20 years of experience in the A/E/C industry, driven by developing relationships through active listening. While she is not partnering with firms, she is getting her hands dirty raising cows and goats on our family’s ranch in a small logging town West of Portland, Oregon. For a more in-depth bio, visit www.refinemkt.com
Tell us about your life before the venture/ leading up to your venture?
I have spent over 20 years working for architecture firms in the Pacific Northwest. I have always loved both the creative side of architecture and also the programmatic side – always keeping you on your toes. I have worked as a Project Assistant to Marketing Director, and everywhere in-between. I have learned so much and value every step of the way which finally led me to start my own business.
Tell us something about your organization. What is it about and how is it helpful for people?
I started Refine Marketing to help overwhelmed businesses find success through authentic, strategic actions. I help identify and connect their goals and processes to their unique differentiators in the marketplace. I can help refine their current strategic or marketing plan or help develop a new one with manageable action items, creating sustained success. I can also help prepare, organize, and execute RFP/RFQ responses, minimizing stress. Another service I provide is the evaluation of current clients. I help business owners understand if their clients value their work and relationships. I can help develop strategies and objectives to increase trust.
What has been the response of the consumers towards your venture?
I have talked to many business owners, managing partners, and principals of different firms about my approach and what services I offer, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. My initial conversations that were scheduled for 30 minutes would last for two hours. My approach of “listening to learn” is practical and needed, especially in today’s climate. Most people want to be heard rather than bombarded with quick answers or antidotes to alleviate short-term stress. You must understand their passion, purpose, and goals to obtain accurate results before figuring out the real issues. I have experience with these conversations and have identified processes to help move firms forward to success.
How has your life changed because of your venture?
Building your own business isn’t for the faint of heart. I took a massive leap of faith to make this decision, but I’m so glad I did. I want to live authentically through my professional venture, and one way is to build a foundation to support that goal. I have more opportunities to meet extraordinary business leaders and professionals and help guide them and their businesses to their full potential. I would say that I have more flexibility, but there is always work to be done. With having my own business, I can prioritize and carve out time to be present for my family and my animals.
Give a motivational message for the audience/women who are reading this.
Your authentic self is who the world needs. We all have unique strengths and talents to share and help others, but true breakthrough comes by seeing the strengths and talent in others. It’s ok not to be perfect in everything we do. We will fail but having people around you that lift you and celebrate your strengths is so important.