A Letter From An Entrepreneur: Jamal Abdulrasheed
Our small, family-owned business began in February of 2021 when we realized we hadn’t been taking care of ourselves as well as we could. The COVID-19 pandemic woke us up to the importance of self-care and self-prioritization, which leads to ultimate self-preservation. We set out to help men establish and rejuvenate their self-care routine with products they could take pride in.
My name is Jamal Abdulrasheed and I am the Co-founder of Magnolia Green, a grooming company based out of Indianapolis that is focused on changing the narrative surrounding men’s grooming and self-care. Made with nothing but authentic ingredients, our products represent real people with real stories.
Who We Are
Our small, family-owned business began in February of 2021 when we realized we hadn’t been taking care of ourselves as well as we could. The COVID-19 pandemic woke us up to the importance of self-care and self-prioritization, which leads to ultimate self-preservation. We set out to help men establish and rejuvenate their self-care routine with products they could take pride in.
Long before the pandemic, our story began when we, two brothers, were only boys. We learned of love, perseverance, and hope while being raised beneath the cool shade of our late grandmother and her Magnolia trees. Our grandmother and family matriarch, Z.L. Robinson, left Mississippi and the Jim Crow South and pursued a new life in the Haughville neighborhood of Indianapolis. She was a lover of good music, and despite her struggle with Alzheimer’s and Dementia in her old age, she never forgot the words to a classic Al Green song. We have fond memories of enjoying Al Green music with our grandmother until her final days. Like the sturdy Magnolia trees and the power of Green’s soulful music, we strive to always celebrate our rich origins and familial legacy.
I think it’s important to share this background information on our brand, because it provides color and context for many of the initial considerations (and struggles) my brother and I faced and continue to face with Magnolia Green. From day one, we understood that branding is everything and that to build something that would last, we needed to be candid about who we are, where we come from and how we intend to provide value to customers beyond selling them another product.
In this short article, I’ll discuss how important branding was for us, how patience is a virtue, and how you should think of entrepreneurship and getting started.
Branding, Branding, Branding
I can’t emphasize how important it was for us to nail the branding aspect of our business. We spent weeks upon weeks choosing the exact color codes, the fonts on our labeling and website, our custom logo design and the names of our products. My brother and I wanted our products to feel nostalgic, while serving as a constant reminder that wellness was an important aspect of a man’s day, every time they walked to their bathroom sink to begin or end their day. This goes a long way because you never know what opportunities will present themselves to you, and when you’re branding is already A1, life is easier. We’re in talks with a major grocery retailer at the moment, and branding wasn’t something we worried about because we know we already nailed it. Branding is everything.
Patience is a Virtue
I am now a proponent of the idea that “the devil is in the details.” This was an early pain point for my brother and I, because paying close attention to detail required us to spend nearly nine months getting this business off the ground. Designing our labels was a painstaking activity, and required many prints and shipments until we got it right. Now, nine months may seem like a short period of time for some, but time can be relative when starting a business and in my head this seemed like FOREVER. But as a first-time entrepreneur, I quickly learned that there’s something to be said about picking up a project, putting it down and reflecting, and then picking it up again with a fresh set of eyes. We could not have come up with the ideas, and changes to existing ideas, if we hadn’t taken every day of those nine months to scrutinize every aspect of our business. Patience is truly a virtue.
Getting Started
Many people want to be entrepreneurs but can’t seem to find a business idea that sticks. I’ve wanted to be an entrepreneur for years but could never think of that one “bright idea.” But through starting Magnolia Green I learned a key lesson that all entrepreneurs should take heed to. JUST START SOMETHING AND START LEARNING. I say this because honestly, I can’t promise you that Magnolia Green will become some massive success, that we’ll be sold in retailers nationally, or that we’ll bring in six-figure revenues each month. But what I can say is that I know how to build a business from the ground up. I know how to run the numbers, market the business, hire independent contractors, file sales tax forms, create and design a Shopify website, work collaboratively with a business partner, and more. And the list goes on and on. You can’t take these experiences and skills away from me. My point is that entrepreneurship is about the reps or shots you put up in the practice gyms. Maybe you needed to put up more shots to realize what that big business idea was! Because when an opportunity presents itself, you’ll know you have the arsenal to see it through.
You can shop our natural beard care line at MagnoliaGreenCo.com. You can also join us on Instagram live for Magnolia Mondays where we have important conversations regarding men’s health and wellness. You can hear from us, other men, and experts discuss how we can increase wellness in our lives overall. If quality beard products and an improved lifestyle are what you seek, Magnolia Green is for you. Together we will become the best versions of ourselves one step at a time.
Good luck with your entrepreneurial journey!
- Jamal Abdulrasheed, Esq. – Co-founder, Magnolia Green Grooming Co.
Follow Magnolia Green on Instagram and check out their website for products.
A Guide to Digital Business Cards in 2021
Digital business cards are quickly replacing their paper counterparts. This guide will cover what digital business cards are, the benefits of going digital, and how to make and share your own.
This article is reposted with permission from HiHello. The original blog post can be found here.
The way we connect with others is rapidly evolving. Perhaps the highly infectious coronavirus pandemic accelerated this, but an increasing reliance on technology as a way to interact with our peers was eventually inevitable.
Because of the push for remote-everything in 2020, remote work, online networking, and virtual events became common practice. With that, naturally came the need for a virtual way to exchange contact information. As we head into 2021—despite paper business cards being around for centuries—the act of exchanging one piece of paper for another (and placing it in your wallet, never to be seen again) is quickly becoming antiquated. In its place emerges a rising favorite: the digital business card.
What is a digital business card?
A digital business card (also known as virtual or electronic business cards) is an online means of sharing contact information. Digital business cards can be created on an iPhone, iPad, Android, or computer, and are oftentimes more affordable than their paper counterparts. Like typical business cards, electronic business cards can be customized, designed, and shared with anyone. There are no space constraints with digital cards—you can add as much or as little information to your card as you’d like. In addition to your normal contact information (like your name, company, email, and phone number) you can enrich your card with a photo or video, a logo, social media profiles, and more.
Examples of different types of digital business cards.
How do digital business cards work?
There are several digital business card apps out there, and you’ll need to find the one that works the best for you. We recommend HiHello—HiHello is a free digital business card, business card scanner, and contact manager app. HiHello lets you make multiple digital business cards with different information on each card, so you can have a card for your work contacts, one for clients or customers, and one for your friends. Unlike other business card apps, with HiHello you can share your card with anyone, even if they don’t have the app.
Create different business cards to use in different settings.
What are the benefits of digital business cards?
There are several reasons why virtual business cards are the way to go. Here are a few benefits of going digital.
Convenience
As long as you have access to your phone or computer, you’ll always have your digital business cards on hand. Because everything is electronic, you’ll never need to worry if your card supply is low and if you need to order more. Digital cards are also extremely flexible. Did you switch jobs, get a new phone number, or simply make a typo? That can be a costly mistake with paper cards. Digital business cards allow you edit to your cards at any time, so they are always up-to-date with your latest contact information.
Eco-friendly
Let’s admit it—paper business cards aren’t the most environmentally conscious way to exchange contact information. Did you know that over 90% of business cards are thrown away within one week of receiving them? Talk about wasted paper! If everyone switched from paper to electronic cards, over seven million trees would be saved each year.
Affordable
Digital business cards are often more affordable than their paper counterparts. (In HiHello’s case, they’re free!) There’s no need to pay hundreds of dollars a year on paper cards that are going to get thrown away almost immediately—save that money and reallocate it to another aspect of your business, like your marketing budget.
If you are interested in a premium business card experience, many apps allow for upgrades. HiHello offers multiple subscription plans for individuals with premium features like custom URLs, colors, QR codes, and more. HiHello for Business is a great and affordable digital business card platform for teams and organizations who are looking to make the switch from paper to digital.
Contactless
With online meetings and virtual events becoming the new norm, virtual business cards are becoming a staple of everyday life. Digital cards can be shared with anyone, anywhere—simply send the link over email, text, or social media. During a Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet video call, you can hold up your QR code, and anyone in attendance can scan your code and will have instant access to your card. Even when in-person gatherings resume, digital business cards will stick around because they’re germ-free and no physical contact is required.
Digital business cards are contactless and can be sent to anyone, anywhere—no physical contact required.
Seamless follow-ups
When you receive a paper business card, what do you normally do with it? Most people will toss it in their purse or wallet, where it's forgotten and when found, almost immediately thrown out. When you share a digital business card, it doesn’t get lost in the oblivion of old receipts, gum wrappers, and hair ties. Digital business cards go directly into the receiver’s inbox, so your new contact can easily integrate it (and you!) into their workflow. Virtual cards make following up easier and more efficient, which in return can lead to fostering stronger connections.
How to make a digital business card
Making a digital business card is simple and can be done within minutes. First, you’ll need to download a digital business card app. Once you have the app on your iPhone or Android device you’re ready to get started with your first virtual card. With HiHello, you can also create a digital business card on your computer—simply create an account on (or log in to) the HiHello website and you’ll be able to make and edit your cards, as well as view your contacts.
Once you’re ready to create your first digital business card, use the following guides to help you get started:
What to include on a digital business card
You can put as much or as little information as you want on your digital business card, and you’ll never run out of space. (No more trying to pack in as much information as you can—while still trying to make it look somewhat presentable—on a 3.5x2 piece of paper!)
When it comes to what exactly to put on a card, here are a few things that you should always include:
Name
On HiHello, you can add more than your first and last names. Add any prefixes or suffixes, as well as any accreditations, your preferred name (for example, a nickname or the name you go by professionally, like Dr. Jones), or a maiden name. You can also include your pronouns on your digital card, so people will know how to refer to you.
Title and company
If you’re currently employed, include your title and company name on your virtual card. If you are currently looking for a new role, check out our blog post, “8 Examples of Digital Business Cards for Jobseekers.”
Contact information
Include your preferred means of contact on your card, like your email, phone number, website, WhatsApp, or any other links.
Location
Unless your physical address is crucial to your business, adding a generic region is completely acceptable on business cards (for example, “San Francisco Bay Area” or “New York, New York”).
Picture or video
Adding a picture or video to your card is important—it will help connect the “name to face” for your contacts. Make your card even more memorable by opting for a live photo or video on your business card instead of a static picture!
Logo
Add your company's logo to your business card! You can either upload your own from your files or Photos or—on HiHello—you can search for a logo directly within the app.
Easily find and add your company's logo to your digital business card.
Color
Colors help your card stand out (plus, they look nice!). On HiHello, you can choose from any of the ten colors that come with the free app. If you want to choose a color that isn’t available, consider upgrading to HiHello Basic or HiHello Professional (for individuals) or HiHello Business (for teams). Premium accounts give you access to any color on the color wheel, and you can customize both the card design and buttons.
How to put social media on your business card
If social media is relevant to your business, you should include it on your digital business card. Here are a few different options of social media accounts you can add, as well as a few tips and tricks.
Most people are on Twitter these days. If you’re active on Twitter, adding your Twitter handle can help you grow your online following by including it on your virtual card.
If you’re in the creative industry, including your Instagram account on your digital card could be a way to show off your portfolio to potential clients.
Adding your personal or company’s Facebook page to your business card can be a great way to stay engaged and connected with your audience.
LinkedIn is great to include on your card if you rely on it for your business, you're trying to grow your number of LinkedIn connections, or if you’re on the job market.
YouTube
If you have any video content to show off, place it in the YouTube field! On HiHello, if you want to embed the video in your card turn the “Feature” toggle on, and the video will appear at the bottom of your digital card. Featuring a video is a great way to further engage the people you meet. If you’re a realtor, perhaps consider adding a video of a virtual house tour. Working on pitching a new product? Include a marketing promo video on your card!
Example of a featured YouTube video on a virtual business card.
Snapchat and TikTok
If you’re a content creator, influencer, social media manager, or are simply making a digital business card to give to your friends, add a little spice to your card by adding your Snapchat and TikTok handles! As always, be mindful of your audience—only include these if they pertain to your business.
What else should I put on my business card?
GitHub
If you’re an engineer or developer, adding your Github to your card is a great way to show your work.
Yelp
If you’re a business owner, add the link to your Yelp page to your card. This can help drive traffic to your business, and can also encourage your clients or customers to leave five-star reviews!
Venmo, PayPal, CashApp, and Zelle
If your business accepts electronic payments, adding your Venmo, PayPal, CashApp, or Zelle to your card makes it easier for clients or customers to pay you on the spot, instead of them having to search around for your user name, email, or phone number.
Calendly
If you rely on Calendly for all your scheduling needs, you’re in luck—you can add your Calendly link to your business card! Anyone who taps on your Calendly link will be taken to your calendar, where they can schedule a meeting with you.
Skype
Virtual meetings aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. Make it so people can easily give you a call by including your Skype handle on your digital business card.
Twitch and Discord
Any streamers around? Include the link to your Twitch or Discord so people can watch your streams!
WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and WeChat
Various chat apps are popular in different countries. No matter where you live or which chat app you use, there’s a field for it on HiHello.
Nintendo Switch, Xbox Live, PlayStation
Include your friend codes and gamer tags on your business card so people can easily connect with you on your favorite gaming consoles. Game on!
Dates
You can add birthdays and anniversaries to your cards underneath the “Date” field.
Notes
If there’s anything else you want to add to your card, you can write it in a note.
Examples of the different fields you can add to your digital business card.
How do I share my digital business card?
So your card is personalized and ready to be shared, now what? Sharing your digital business card is simple, and can be accomplished in seven different ways:
Share using a QR Code
Every HiHello digital business card has a unique QR code. If you’re networking with someone in-person and want to share your card with them, have them aim their phone’s camera at your QR code. Not in-person? You can also share your QR code over Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet—hold your code up to your computer's camera and have the other meeting attendee scan it with their phone's camera. When someone scans your code, your digital business card will appear on their phone, and from there they can save your card as a .VCF. Your code never expires, so if you save your business card’s QR code to your phone or computer, you can print it on any marketing collateral. When scanned, it will always link back to your digital business card.
If your brand is important to your business and a QR code is a primary way you want to share your business card, consider subscribing to HiHello Professional or HiHello Business. Both plans allow you to insert your logo into your QR code for optimal branding.
Text or email your business card
Text or email your digital business card from within your business card app! On HiHello you can double-tap your card to pull up the send screen, and then select “Email” or “Text.” You’ll be prompted to enter the recipient's name, email or phone number, and an optional message. Please note that if you choose the text method, the recipient will receive a text from a HiHello number, not your number. If you want the recipient to have your phone number, make sure you include it in your business card, or in a message that goes along with the text you send from the app.
You can share your card using its QR code, or send via email or text message.
Send the link to your card
If you’re networking from a distance, you can share your digital business card by copying the link to your card, and then paste the link in an email, text message, social media post, and other means of communication.
If you plan on sending the link to your card often, you may want to think about upgrading to HiHello Professional or HiHello Business. With either plan, you can customize the link to your card. The link will always begin with the prefix “hihello.me/hi/” but you can customize anything that goes after the “/.”
Share with people who are nearby
HiHello has a feature called Nearby, and it works similarly to Airdrop on iOS. If another HiHello user is near you, you can send them your digital business card—no QR code or link required.
Share using a virtual background
Online meetings aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. Next time you’re on a Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet call for a networking event, a job interview, or a meeting with a potential customer, use a HiHello virtual background. Virtual backgrounds are great to use when networking online—they look professional, hide any background distractions, and keep your home private (and let’s face it—more and more people are working from home these days). When you create a virtual background, it’ll link to your digital business card and will show your QR code in the upper right corner. Anyone on the call can scan your QR code with their phone, and will be able to see your digital business card.
Learn how to create and add a virtual background to Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet with the following guides:
Example of a HiHello virtual background for Zoom.
Use the HiHello widget
If you have an iPhone, you can share your business card with a widget. The HiHello widget for iOS 14 (or greater versions) will prominently display your card’s QR code, so anyone can scan your code right from your Home Screen. Learn how to set up the HiHello widget on iOS 14 or greater in the blog post, “How to Add the HiHello Widget on iOS 14.”
Share your digital business card from your Home Screen with the HiHello widget.
Share your card with your email signature
On HiHello you can use your digital business card to create professional email signatures. With multiple templates to choose from, HiHello’s email signature generator will allow you to easily create an email signature that links to your business card. You can learn how to create an email signature in the blog post, “How to Create an Email Signature.”
Use HiHello's email signature generator to create a signature that links back to your business card.
Learn exactly how to share (and how to receive!) a digital business card with the following guides:
Get started with HiHello
HiHello is a free digital business card and contact manager app designed to help you curate and grow your network. If you’re ready to make the change from paper business cards to digital, sign up for HiHello for free on iOS, Android, or desktop.
Spotlight
“On behalf of our family, I want to send a huge thank you to Mel Chiri for her contribution to the platform. A pleasure to work with and a fantastic writer, we appreciate the opportunity to share some of your work.
Click the button below to read more from Mel and be sure to follow her on social media!”