Welcome to a Curvy Mom Blog. We are super excited to have you within our community to share your story.
Manifest your Business: Meet Tamz of NXTGen Services
Can you give me a little of the back history of the creation of NXTGen Services?
A: The story of NXTGen Services begins in the heart of South Africa, with two dreamers, Nic and Tamz. While many are content with the predictability of a 9-to-5 job, we yearned for more. We envisioned a life infused with passion, creativity, and, most importantly, the freedom to explore the world. (AKA Millennials with a heart of a Gen Z… lol)
Our combined ambition led us to establish NXTGen Services. This design and video agency wasn’t just about business for us; it was the vessel that would allow us to live our dream life. Using our talents in design, video creation, and strategy, we crafted a brand that stands for quality, innovation, and narratives that resonate.
But NXTGen Services serves a dual purpose. Beyond its professional endeavours, it’s our passport to the world. Within a mere nine months, it created us the flexibility and funds to travel the world. We aim to immerse ourselves in a spectrum of cultures and experiences. Each adventure not only enriches us personally but also breathes fresh inspiration into our work.
In essence, NXTGen Services is more than just a company. It’s our ticket to breaking the conventions of routine, embracing the beauty of the world, and showing others that with vision and perseverance, it’s possible to weave work, passion, and travel seamlessly together.
We have been working together for quite some time when NXTGen was primarily focused on Virtual Assistance services, what caused the shift to focus now on brand your business services?
A: We’ve been collaborating for quite some time, and while it might seem like NXTGen Services has shifted its focus, the reality is different. Initially, it might have seemed like our main offering was Virtual Assistance services, but in reality, that was never our primary concentration. Over time, we’ve understood that most clients aren’t specifically looking for a “Virtual Assistant” in the traditional sense. Instead, they seek someone who can wear multiple hats — from being a social media manager, a video editor, a designer, to a web developer. The term ‘VA’ has become an umbrella term for a range of services, with only a fraction of clients actually needing assistance with administrative tasks like emails, meeting minutes, or file organization. Think of a VA as a Swiss Army knife for businesses. NXTGen Services’ strength lies in our versatility, and we provide services that cater to this broad range of needs.
How important is branding to a business and why does it matter?
A: Branding is crucial to a business for several reasons:
Identity and Recognition: Branding gives a business a unique identity. A strong brand distinguishes a company in the marketplace. Think of iconic symbols like the Apple logo or Nike’s swoosh – even without the company name, you know who they are.
Trust and Credibility: A consistent and professional branding builds trust. When a company presents itself in a professional way, and when there is visual consistency across all communications, consumers come to feel more comfortable and assured about the quality of products or services offered.
Value Proposition Communication: Through branding, businesses can communicate their value proposition, core values, and the essence of what they stand for. This ensures that potential customers understand the unique benefits and features that set the company apart from its competitors.
Emotional Connection: A good brand resonates with people at an emotional level. They feel good when they buy the brand. Purchasing is as much an emotional decision as it is a practical one.
Customer Loyalty: People love to be associated with “good” brands. They trust them. When a brand consistently delivers on its promise and maintains its relevance, it fosters loyalty.
Competitive Advantage: In a saturated market, having a memorable brand can differentiate your business from the rest. It can provide a competitive edge.
Perceived Value and Premium Pricing: Strong branding can allow businesses to set higher prices for their products or services, as consumers may be willing to pay a premium for well-branded goods and experiences.
Supports Advertising Efforts: Branding isn’t just about a logo or tagline. It’s also about the tone of communications, the look of advertisements, and the message’s consistency. Effective branding aids and amplifies advertising efforts.
Attracts Talent: Branding is not just external; it’s also internal. A strong brand can attract talented employees who want to be a part of the brand and its growth.
Guidance: A well-defined brand provides guidance to its staff in how to represent the company, ensuring consistent representation and service.
In essence, branding is not just about getting your target market to choose you over the competition. It’s about getting your prospects to see you as the only solution to their problem. A strong brand reflects the sum total of every experience, every click, every touchpoint that an individual has with your business.
For businesses that aren’t on social media, that don’t even have a website really; what advice would you give to them for branding?
A: Branding extends beyond digital platforms. At its core, branding is about creating a memorable identity. For businesses without a digital presence, it’s crucial to maintain consistent quality in both product and service. Focus on enhancing your physical presence, from store design to staff interactions. Engage locally through networking, sponsorships, and by leveraging traditional media. Use quality printed materials for brand recall and consider gradually establishing an online presence for added credibility. Always prioritize customer feedback and ensure your team embodies your brand’s values. Remember, successful branding is about trust, consistency, and authenticity, regardless of the medium. However, venturing online is recommended; it offers free advertising opportunities, so it’s wise not to leave money on the table.
People have so many ideas when it comes to branding thinking its just about the logo or colors: what does brand me to you?
A: To me, branding goes far beyond just a logo or color palette. It’s the holistic representation of a company’s identity, encompassing its values, mission, and overall essence. A brand is the emotional and psychological relationship a company has with its audience, built on every touchpoint they have with the public. It’s the sum total of every interaction, from the tone of written content, the design aesthetics, the customer service experience, to the very product or service being offered. A logo or color is merely the tip of the iceberg, a visual cue that invokes the broader perception and feelings a customer associates with a business. In essence, a brand is the promise a company makes to its customers and the experience it consistently delivers. It’s how a company is perceived in the minds of those it serves, influenced by expectations, memories, stories, and relationships.
What systems/programs do you use to help with time management and organization to better your business success?
A: To optimize time management and drive organizational efficiency within my business, I’ve integrated Asana as a pivotal tool for collaboration with all my clients. This platform not only allows for streamlined project management but also facilitates clear delegation of tasks to relevant team members. By setting tangible deadlines, we ensure that we remain on track, fostering a proactive work environment. Asana has been instrumental in guaranteeing that our processes flow seamlessly, ensuring we’re always progressing in the intended direction and meeting our shared objectives.
NXTGen Services also create video content and editing services: can you share more about this?
A: NXTGen Services has adeptly expanded into the realm of video content creation and editing, recognizing the significance of visual storytelling in today’s digital age. We work collaboratively with clients to craft high-quality videos that resonate with their target audience, ensuring that each piece aligns with their brand’s essence. Beyond initial creation, our editor employ advanced tools to refine, enhance, and polish content, ensuring a professional and impactful final product that effectively conveys the intended message.
Social media platforms have made it very easy for business owners to have a digital storefront (website) – do you think websites may eventually become obsolete? Do you think businesses still need one?
A: While social media platforms provide an accessible avenue for businesses to establish a digital presence, they shouldn’t be the sole digital storefront. Relying solely on social media is risky because businesses don’t truly ‘own’ their audience there. I view social media as a means to funnel potential customers to a dedicated website, where genuine lead generation can occur. It’s crucial to understand the inherent risks: if a social media platform suspends your account due to unforeseen violations, you could instantly lose your entire audience. This audience is a company’s most valuable asset. In contrast, owning an email list ensures more control and permanence; it’s an asset you truly possess and can always leverage. So, to answer the question: No, I firmly believe websites will never become obsolete, especially when leveraged effectively for lead generation.
“While social media platforms provide an accessible avenue for businesses to establish a digital presence, they shouldn’t be the sole digital storefront. Relying solely on social media is risky because businesses don’t truly ‘own’ their audience there.”
– Tamz
Describe NXTGen Services’ brand identity. How has it evolved since you first launched your company?
A: NXTGen Services began with a steadfast vision and a commitment to providing top-tier solutions to our clients. Initially, our brand was deeply rooted in delivering quality service with utmost transparency. As the business landscape evolved and client needs became more complex, our brand identity underwent a transformation to stay ahead of the curve. We embraced innovative technologies, diversified our service offerings, and expanded our reach to cater to a broader spectrum of clients.
Despite these changes, the essence of NXTGen has remained constant: a commitment to excellence and a dedication to our founding values. Our visual identity, communication style, and overall aesthetics have matured over time, but they continue to reflect the core principles that define us.
A critical aspect of our evolution has been our commitment to continuous learning and improvement. We stay informed and adapt to changes in the industry, ensuring that our clients don’t have to. By constantly enhancing our knowledge and skills, we add value to our services, helping our clients stay competitive and succeed in their respective fields. Today, NXTGen Services stands as a symbol of adaptability, growth, and unwavering commitment to excellence, adding value wherever we can and ensuring that our clients always have access to the best solutions available.
In your opinion, should you tailor your brand to the customer or to the business owner?
A: The question of whether to tailor a brand to the customer or to the business owner is a nuanced one, and the answer often lies in a balance between the two. Here’s my perspective:
- Customer-Centric Approach: Brands exist in the market primarily to serve customers. Tailoring your brand to the customer ensures that the products or services you offer are in line with market demands. A brand that understands and caters to its target audience’s needs, preferences, and pain points often sees higher engagement, loyalty, and sales. In today’s competitive market, a customer-centric approach is often crucial for sustainability and growth.
- Business Owner’s Vision and Values: On the other hand, a brand is also a reflection of the business owner’s vision, values, and passion. The authenticity that comes from a brand genuinely embodying the beliefs and values of its founder can resonate powerfully with consumers. When a brand is rooted in genuine conviction and passion, it can create a unique and authentic market position that’s difficult for competitors to replicate.
Balancing the Two: The most enduring and successful brands often find a sweet spot between the two. They manage to infuse the business owner’s values and vision while also aligning with the needs and desires of their target audience. This ensures authenticity and relevance.
While it’s essential to have a brand that reflects the business owner’s ethos, it’s equally crucial to ensure that the brand resonates with the target audience. Brands should aim for a harmonious blend of both to achieve long-term success and meaningful connections with their audience.
What is a typical day like for you? How many hours do you spend on your business?
A: My daily routine is somewhat atypical, primarily because many of my clients operate in time zones that are 6-9 hours behind my own, if we are not on the road.
Here’s a snapshot of my typical day:
- 10:00 am – 10:30 am: Rise and shine.
- 10:30 am – 11:30 am: Engage in a home workout session.
- 11:30 am – 12:00 pm: Enjoy breakfast.
- 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Tackle errands or dive into work tasks.
- 3:00 pm – 3:30 pm: Lunch break.
- 3:30 pm – 9:30 pm: Dedicated work hours, servicing client needs.
- 9:30 pm – 10:00 pm: Dinner time.
- 10:00 pm – 11:00 pm: Dedicate time to our vlog channel
- 11:00 pm – 12:00 am: Wind down with an episode of my favorite TV show before heading to bed.
Despite the unusual timing dictated by client locations, I’ve established a routine that prioritizes both professional commitments and personal well-being. It is not always perfect due to workloads but I do not miss a workout 😊
What is one task that excites you and one task that you would take away if you could?
A: One aspect of my work that genuinely excites me is design. I find myself completely immersed in the creative process, and before I know it, hours have effortlessly slipped by, and I’ve occasionally skipped a meal or two. While this level of engagement can be intense, and sometimes I encounter mental blocks, the satisfaction I derive from the creative process makes it all worthwhile.
On the other hand, if there’s one aspect I would choose to minimize, it would be meetings. Although I acknowledge their importance in building relationships and fostering communication, they can be quite time-consuming and, at times, feel unproductive—particularly with larger clients. There have been instances where multiple meetings resulted in minimal progress, leaving us seemingly stuck at square one. Striking a balance between necessary communication and efficiency is something I constantly strive for.
What books would you recommend for entrepreneurs to read? Any books that inspire you?
A: For entrepreneurs seeking valuable insights and inspiration, I highly recommend the following reads:
- “Crush It!” by Gary Vaynerchuk: This book offers a compelling dive into the world of personal branding and the importance of passion-driven work.
- “100 Million Dollar Offer” by Alex Hormozi: A masterclass in crafting irresistible offers and understanding the nuances of effective selling.
- “The Psychology of Money“: This isn’t just about finance but delves deep into the behaviors, biases, and beliefs that shape our financial decisions.
Each of these books has imparted wisdom and perspectives that I’ve found invaluable in my entrepreneurial journey.
How did you grow your customer base and following?
A: In the beginning, I launched my services on Fiverr, which provided a solid foundation. However, as time progressed, the majority of my clientele now stems from my active presence on social media coupled with the powerful word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients.
How do you balance social media marketing and the day-to-day administrative tasks of running a business? A: Balancing social media marketing with the day-to-day administrative tasks of a business can be challenging but is vital for sustainable growth. Here’s my approach:
- Prioritization: It’s essential to identify which tasks have the most significant impact on the business. While social media marketing is crucial for visibility and engagement, administrative tasks ensure the smooth operation of the business. So, I prioritize tasks daily based on urgency and importance.
- Scheduling & Time Blocking: I set aside specific blocks of time for social media-related tasks, like content creation, scheduling posts, and engagement. This ensures I don’t get caught up in it throughout the day. Similarly, I designate dedicated time slots for administrative tasks to prevent them from being overshadowed.
- Automation & Tools: There are various tools available that can automate repetitive tasks. For social media, platforms like Buffer can schedule and post content automatically. For administrative tasks, software like Asana can streamline processes.
- Batching Tasks: Doing similar tasks together can be more efficient than jumping between different kinds of tasks. For instance, I might designate a certain time for content creation, another for financial tasks, and so on.
- Regular Reviews: I conduct monthly reviews to evaluate how much time is being spent on each segment of the business. This helps in reallocating time and resources if one area is taking up too much bandwidth.
In essence, it’s a blend of smart planning, leveraging technology, and sometimes seeking external support (hubby). This balance ensures that both marketing efforts and administrative responsibilities receive the attention they deserve, driving growth and smooth operations.
How do you protect your peace with clients (business relationships); what boundaries do you set?
A: Fortunately, the time difference has inherently established a boundary for me. My clients are quite understanding and tend to reduce their communications by around 9pm my time. With the implementation of Asana, clients now directly assign tasks to me, confident in the knowledge that they will be completed by the given deadlines. This system, coupled with our open lines of communication, has greatly contributed to maintaining a harmonious relationship. While they’re respectful of the time zone difference, they also know that if something is truly pressing, they can reach out to me via WhatsApp or iMessage. I must say, I’m genuinely grateful for the understanding and cooperative nature of my clients.
You and your hubby co-own NXTGen Services together (congrat’s power couple); how do you create a healthy balance?
A: Balancing a business partnership with my husband, Nic, requires clear delineation of roles to ensure harmony. To steer clear of overlaps, we’ve meticulously divided our responsibilities. I take the lead on direct communications, design, and administrative tasks, while Nic focuses on website development, video editing, and client base expansion. Essentially, he’s the visionary strategist, and I’m the hands-on executor. This division allows us to both leverage our individual strengths and function cohesively as a power duo. Moreover, we have a cardinal rule in place: personal decisions remain separate from business ones, and vice versa. We firmly believe that intertwining the two can strain a marriage, so we’ve prioritized maintaining a distinct boundary to ensure both our relationship and business thrive. This is especially true when we are traveling as travel in itself is also stressful.
____________________________________________
5 Spotlight Questions!
What is your daily self-care routine?
Best advice you received…
Don’t be afraid to start small and say yes to every opportunity that comes your way in the beginning until you gain enough experience in the industry.
Favorite thing to do when you have alone time…
I personally dislike alone time, but what I do enjoy in my spare time is watching Korean dramas with my Hubby.
What would you tell your eighteen-year-old self?
Explore as many diverse experiences as possible. It’s through this exploration that you’ll discover and ignite your true passions.
What would be your natural talent if you weren’t doing this?
5 thoughts on “Meet Tamz of NXTGen Services”
Wow, this was such an amazing and inspiring interview. She makes me want to work from laptop and travel. Thanks for sharing.
OMG!!! What a life to live… i am so happy i came across your site. I signed up to be apart of the community. Women rock!
Tamz you are an inspiration to all
Pingback: canadian pharmacy viagra 100
Pingback: homework essay help