The Inspirers: Mhairi Petrovic, Founder of Out-Smarts Marketing

My photo shoot with Mhairi (va-ri) Petrovic involved hunting for graffiti art in the streets of Gastown, was preceded by a wee dram, and followed by a superb cup of coffee. In other words: it was perfect.

Mhairi is the Founder of Out-Smarts Marketing and is dedicated to working with clients to develop and implement marketing strategies that maximize on-line exposure. She's a regular presenter at Small Business BC, and is also a judge in their annual competition to determine the best small business marketing campaign in the province. I've known her for a number of years. Her class and ethics make her a perfect fit for my series "The Inspirers".

D7: As a business person, what do you consider to be the biggest gift you offer to others?
MP: One of the reasons I started my business in 2002 was to share my knowledge with others to help them grow their business. I continue to teach social media, blogging, SEO and email marketing in public at Small Business BC and Capilano University as well as private client training engagements. It's hugely rewarding when students reach out to thank me and even better when they describe how their new skills have positively impacted their business.

D7:Which triumph has brought you the most joy?
MP: First and foremost my family, my kids are turning out to be fantastic young adults who inspire me every day, and I'm very fortunate that my husband has supported, encouraged and mentored me every step of the way. I couldn't do what I do without them.
 
D7: Which struggle have you learned from the most? (Same: business, personal, or both).
MP: One thing I have learned is that you're going to make mistakes big and small, and that these mistakes always have silver linings. If you're not making mistakes you're not trying hard enough. It's always important to look for the silver linings, i.e. what has this mistake helped you learn rather than chastise yourself.

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