Teja Smith: Pioneering Digital Excellence and Empowering Communities during Black Business Month

A Beacon of Entrepreneurship and the Force Behind “Get Social”

Entrepreneurs who make a positive impact on their communities stand out not only because of their business acumen. In the competitive business landscape, Teja Smith, the dynamic owner of “Get Social,” has carved out a niche for herself. It’s only fitting that we spotlight Teja and her remarkable journey during Black Business Month.

A Visionary from the Start

At a young age, Teja Smith was able to demonstrate her entrepreneurial spirit. She was always looking for opportunities to innovate and make a difference as a child growing up in a community that valued hard work and perseverance. “Get Social” is a digital marketing agency that helps businesses enhance their online presence through her keen sense of observation and her ability to understand market needs.

“Get Social”: More Than Just a Business

While “Get Social” began as a dream, it stands today as a testament to Teja’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence. A wide range of services are offered by the agency, ranging from social media management to content creation. As a result, all businesses are equipped with the tools they need to thrive in the digital age, regardless of how big or small they are.

“Get Social” isn’t just a profit-driven business. Creating a platform to empower other Black entrepreneurs and provide them with the tools and information to succeed was Teja’s vision. Get Social has become a hub for budding entrepreneurs to learn, grow, and network through workshops, mentorship programs, and community outreach.

Celebrating Black Business Month

August is Black Business Month, a time when Black-owned businesses across the country are recognized and supported. This month celebrates the accomplishments and challenges of Black entrepreneurs. Teja Smith embodies the spirit of this celebration with her success story and commitment to uplifting her community.

As a result of Teja’s leadership, “Get Social” launched a number of initiatives during Black Business Month. To ensure Black entrepreneurs have access to the support they need, the agency offers discounted services to Black-owned startups and holds webinars on digital marketing strategies.

A Legacy in the Making

The journey of Teja Smith has inspired many. She stands out for her determination and desire to give back to her community. Teja stays grounded as “Get Social” grows and makes waves in the industry, always seeking to empower and uplift those around her.

We sat down with Teja for a brief interview.

Tell us about your background and how you got started in the business. – I’m originally from Oakland and relocated to Los Angeles for college. I attended Cal State University Northridge and earned my degree in Public Relations. Moving to LA was driven by a desire for more than just an industry job. My roots in activism, nurtured during my upbringing in Oakland, sparked my interest. I self-taught social media strategies before its widespread use, which led me to a role doing social media on the #SchoolsNotPrisons tour in 2016. Collaborating with artists like Pusha T, Miguel, and Ty Dolla Sign, this experience was the perfect balance between activism and my love for music. It laid the foundation for my agency’s growth in the world of activism.

What are the challenges and opportunities you have faced as a Black business owner? Being a Black woman business owner in America comes with its share of challenges. I hesitate to call them struggles because I do feel blessed. However, I’ve encountered many hurdles. The competitive nature of social justice work was unexpected, and navigating it required a learning process. There’s been a surge of newcomers capitalizing on the groundwork I’ve laid over the years, which was both a hurdle and a lesson in itself. Additionally, I’ve faced exploitation from male colleagues in the past, which influenced my decision to create a women-only agency, fostering an environment of empowerment.

What advice would you give to other Black entrepreneurs? For aspiring Black entrepreneurs, I recommend signing up for a business etiquette class and consulting with an accountant when starting a business. As you expand and grow, managing employees and customer service becomes more complex. Seeking professional advice is essential, especially when it comes to navigating the intricacies of business operations and financial matters.

What are your goals for Get Social in the future? In the next five years, my vision for Get Social is to expand further into the entertainment space. I aim to produce more shows featuring artists who actively drive change. Hosting a two-day event or festival is also a dream of mine, as it aligns with our commitment to amplifying voices that spark positive transformations.

How do you think Black businesses can contribute to the economic recovery? Black businesses can play a vital role in economic recovery by supporting each other and fostering a sense of community. It’s important, however, to highlight the quality and value of products and services, rather than solely focusing on them being Black-owned. By promoting excellence and professionalism, we can reshape perceptions and contribute to economic equality.

What are your thoughts on the importance of Black Business Month? I firmly believe that Black Business Month is as significant as Black History Month. It’s a time to celebrate the achievements of past and present entrepreneurs. By doing so, we shed light on the contributions of Black businesses and work towards a more inclusive economic landscape.

What are some of the things you are doing to celebrate Black Business Month? In celebration of Black Business Month, I’m actively sending out high-priced proposals and ensuring that I’m compensated fairly for the value I provide. This embodies my ongoing commitment to excellence and the recognition of my worth as a Black business owner.

In conclusion, as we celebrate Black Business Month, let’s take a moment to appreciate entrepreneurs like Teja Smith, who not only chase their dreams but also pave the way for others to do the same. Her story is a reminder that with passion, determination, and a sense of purpose, anything is possible.