Meet Stephen James Pinchbeck, the founder and sole trader of SJP Logo & Graphic Design in 2002. After 21 years in the business, he can now say that he has delved deep into the world of design, providing design solutions and outcomes for trade, corporate and small business.
Stephen built his business designing logos and brand styles for Australian businesses that have a strong presence in their sector. Including names like Sureshotgps, NSW golf, Opus Camper Trailers, FTG Nissan, Wilson Hot Water, ETS (Eastern Tree Service) and Concept Concrete, just to mention a few.
For more info visit their website here.
Today, we sit down with Stephen to hear a bit more about his journey as an entrepreneur.
Q. How did you get started in entrepreneurship? What inspired you?
Stephen: My journey started when I left a successful design agency career in South Melbourne to pursue my dream of becoming a successful graphic designer in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. The adrenaline and sense of achievement to nail a company’s design look was my ultimate high and I couldn’t get enough of it. I had a talent for designing eye-catching logos and this was to form the foundation of my graphic design business and SJP Logo & Graphic Design was born.
Q. What entrepreneurial tricks have you discovered to keep you focused and productive?
Stephen: Discovering the art of “listening” extremely carefully to what your client wants is crucial in the design process. With this technique, great things can be achieved. It has helped me avoid so many issues and get to the answer, which has been great for my productivity. Not to mention it allows me to help clients feel more passionate about their brands.
Q. How do you stay organized with such a busy schedule?
Stephen: To speed up the design process, I ask 10 simple design questions to my clients before our first meeting. I give them a chance to slow down, reflect and express themselves without fear or judgement. That helps me pave the way for a great outcome and it provides me with the design clarity I need. Asking those simple questions is a great technique that has held firm in my 21 years of experience.
Q. If you were to write a book about yourself, what would you name it?
Stephen: Something Special by Stephen James Pinchbeck. I restored a 1964 EH Holden Special and I am currently writing this book!
Q. What motivates you?
Stephen: one of the things that motivate me is the feeling of being recognised and valued for what I do. My family is also a big motivator. As is my passion for design and all forms of creativity.
Q. What is one of the best or most worthwhile investments you’ve ever made?
Stephen: Buying my first LC475 Apple computer and purchasing my first internet connection. Sending my first design jobs through dial-up internet and hearing that modem sound paved the way for the next 21 years of my career.
Q. What key activities would you recommend entrepreneurs invest their time in?
Stephen: I would say, invest time in socialising and pay attention to the design around you. Stay open-minded and invest in the people you love.
Q. What is your ‘one-sentence’ piece of advice you’d like to give to someone who wants to become an entrepreneur, coach or business owner?
Stephen: Be passionate, have fun and don’t doubt yourself.
To keep up to date with Stephen and his journey, connect with him on LinkedIn.
