How To Go From A Freelancer To A Company CEO, Brian Onorio, TBJApodcast 367

Brian Onorio saved up $20k and then left his corporate job with just a laptop. How to go from a freelancer to a company CEO. Hear his story and get his tops success tips.

In 2007 at the age of 24, Brian Onorio started O3 Creative, the agency known today as Walk West and which recently merged with Greenroom Communications.

Brian graduated from NC State with a BS in Computer Science and a minor in economics, earning recognition as a John T. Caldwell Fellow.

When not at the office, he can be found in the kitchen following the family legacy in the hospitality industry. His two kids, Ethan and Oliver, will soon be Walk West interns. 

Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, Walk West is a full-service, award-winning digital marketing agency that works with brands in a wide variety of industries, including information technology and professional services, institutions, computer software, construction, food and beverage, commercial real estate, nonprofits and associations. The privately-owned company was founded in 2007 as O3 by Brian Onorio and today specializes in research discovery, web design and development, social media marketing, content strategy and marketing, SEO, SEM, digital issue advocacy, video production and professional development services.

Icebreaker

I started my company out of a rental with just my laptop!

Think Like A Journalist Quote

“Just remember, you can’t climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets.” –Arnold Schwarzenegger

Success Quote or Tip

“There is no elevator to success, you have to take the stairs.” –Zig Ziglar

Career Highlight

Brian’s proudest moment was quitting the day job as well as starting and surviving the worst economic times.

When It Didn’t Work

In 2010 the cash reserves dropped due to losing a big account. Brian started updating his resume but he didn’t actually go for jobs. Find out what he did instead.

Top Tips How To Go From A Freelancer To A Company CEO

  1. Find a mentor.
  2. Replace yourself as soon as possible.
  3. Find advisor.
  4. Recruit the right people.

What is one piece of technology, video or multimedia equipment, or app that you just can’t live without?

Social Media.

One book, documentary, blog, podcast, or Internet Channel to watch?

Any technology segments by Jony Ive, Chief Design Officer, Apple

Six Thinking Hats, Edward De Bono

Get a free audio book when you try Audible free for 30 days:  www.audibletrial.com/TBJApodcast

OR to get a physical copy of the book…click the book title.

It’s an Amazon affiliate link. It won’t cost you more but it will send me a few coins to keep on building our crazy good content here. ?

Contact

Twitter @BrianOnorio

Twitter @WalkWest

Walk West website

Mentioned In This Episode

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Phoebe Chongchua
Phoebe Chongchua

I'm a Digital Creator, Brand Journalist, and Marketing Strategist. Let's boost your online presence, increase website traffic, and grow a thriving online community with a smart strategy. I can streamline your business by managing your projects, setting up systems and processes, and helping hire the best people. Check out my podcast, "The Brand Journalism Advantage," on iTunes and at ThinkLikeAJournalist.com.

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