Meet Rosie Kosinski | Brand Queen

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rosie Kosinski and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rosie, what’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?
My policy in both life and business is to treat others the way THEY want to be treated, rather than how I want to be treated. This requires awareness, intuition, and practiced skill. In my experience, people want to be treated in a way that acknowledges their unique experiences, expectations, and time preferences during interactions.

One tool that can help determine the best approach during a conversation is the DISC personality categorization. By asking pointed questions and practicing, you can figure out the general category your conversation partner falls into. Here is a simplified breakdown to use as a guide:

Dominance: People with a dominant personality type are typically direct, assertive, and results-oriented. They prefer conversations that are focused on getting things done and achieving goals, and avoid small talk.

Influence: People with an influence personality type are typically outgoing, enthusiastic, and sociable. They prefer conversations that are upbeat, positive, and focused on building relationships, and appreciate discussions that allow for creative ideas and brainstorming.

Steadiness: People with a steadiness personality type are typically patient, supportive, and dependable. They prefer conversations that are calm, relaxed, and focused on building trust and understanding, and appreciate discussions that allow for careful consideration of all viewpoints.

Conscientious: People with a conscientious personality type are typically analytical, detail-oriented, and cautious. They prefer conversations that are structured, organized, and focused on accuracy and precision, and appreciate discussions that allow for careful analysis and evaluation of information.

It would be frustrating for a dominant person to be bogged down with lengthy small talk, while an influence person would feel unfulfilled in a conversation that only focuses on data and facts. Therefore, it is essential to treat people in a way that resonates with their needs, desires, and timeline, rather than your own.

What should our readers know about your business?
We help businesses communicate their brands powerfully through clear, concise and, compelling storytelling. This may look like a logo or website design, or a brand identity overhaul or build that includes foundational strategy, messaging, brand design and marketing collateral. In short, once my clients get off our first call, they often say “I can finally breathe.” Not knowing where to begin or what your business requires can not only be overwhelming, but leave a decision-maker vulnerable to slick marketing sales people. We simply ask what a business or individual needs, make clear what we offer, and we both decide if the relationship is a mutual fit.

Building this business has been about building and nurturing relationships. In this way, it has been a dynamic, challenging, yet thrilling ride. We continue to learn and anchor our approach in a growth mindset – taking each road block as an opportunity to dig deeper into our skills and opportunities. A constructive and positive approach has been crucial in overcoming challenges.

This is not to say there haven’t been a fair number of freak-outs. Isn’t that the case with every roller coaster ride?

An important lesson I learned while growing this business has been to be in action at all times. Feeling stuck or uninspired? Seek advice, share with someone outside of your circle, or take a joyful break. Cruising or bored? Try something new, take a class (in my case: improv comedy and hip hop!), or explore a new collaboration. Scared or unsure? Have courage! Listen to your gut, and if all else fails, borrow confidence from those who believe in you.

Shattered Pencil is here to encourage business owners to spark a fire they can get excited about, and that nobody can ignore. This fire starts from within, not from a library of trends, and with our work the results are always genuine and true to the brand culture.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Luckily, my best friend and I travel very similarly: book the skeleton of the trip, and then go as the spirit leads. In this case, let’s take a trip to Cyprus during one of the shoulder months, either May or September. This island is chock-full of hospitable Mediterranean culture and beauty, split between Greek and Turkish territories.

We would explore the coasts, swimming in the balmy seas, and drying off at sea-side eateries. The best spots are those with as little ambience as possible – that’s where they put all the love in the food. We would spend the morning walking the spectacular trails or meandering through ancient cobbled streets. We would take leisurely breaks at sweet little cafés and eateries, inevitably making friends with the owners, before returning to the sea. Of course, this trip would not be complete without high-fiving our inner child, and we would absolutely require ourselves to go on some ridiculous water sport adventure that you laugh about the rest of the day.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to express my gratitude to my business coach, Frank Morales (https://shoutoutarizona.com/meet-frank-morales-sales-management-trainer-coach-and-mentor/). He helped me thrive in business by enabling me to better serve my clients and focus my efforts, using my strengths effectively. He taught me the power of listening first, listening some more, and then to just keep listening and asking questions. Sales was never so enjoyable! No more hustling, no more trying to persuade people about my value. With his guidance, I was also able to build partnerships to support my limitations, leading to a more balanced life and a robust business. Frank’s guidance has sprouted growth in business ventures led by myself, my husband, and several colleagues whom I sent his way.

Website: www.shatteredpencil.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/shatteredpencilstudios/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosie-kosinski/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shatteredpencilstudios