James A. Trumbly is the CEO of HMG Creative. James is a thought leader, influencer, visionary, and successful entrepreneur. James provides the leadership and energy that has inspired the creation of HMG Creative. James A. Trumbly joins other leading CEOs and Founders taking part in our Leader Roundtable Interview Series. The DotCom Magazine editorial team is delighted to have James join us for our Leader Roundtable Interview.
James, thank you so much for taking the time out of your busy day for this interview about your company, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
1. James, please tell us about HMG Creative. What is the elevator pitch?
HMG Creative is a full-service digital agency that boosts the marketing efforts of growing brands with creative services in strategy, design, development, and marketing. We operate as a collaborative partner for brands to augment the marketing efforts of growing mid-sized businesses, with a primary focus in web design and brand identity.
2. What is the one thing that makes HMG Creative great?
With HMG, projects are delivered through a tried and tested methodology that produces impressive, consistent results. Always starting with the end in mind, HMG partners with teams to cultivate purpose-driven growth for their brand.
3. Please tell us what is the key to being a great entrepreneur?
Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you. Fail fast, fail early. Be open to ever-constant change, and be willing to put in the time and effort that’s required to build a brand. Be 100% invested.
4. What is the best advice can you give to a young entrepreneur just starting out with a new venture?
Find a mentor. Find someone that is where you want to be in 3-10 years and become a sponge to them. Learn from their mistakes, and short-circuit your success based on your mentor’s experience and direction.
5. What is the one thing that you, as a person, want to be known for?
I want to be known for following through on my word and staying accountable to what I say I’m going to do.
6. When building a business, what is the one most important thing to keep in mind at all times?
Embrace change. Recognize it, and stay ahead of it. Don’t be so set on a certain course that you miss opportunities for evolution and growth. Be open to going where the market leads and always be willing to adapt.
7. When hiring employees, what is the one most important thing you look for?
Commitment and work ethic. Skills are teachable, but drive, ambition, and character are innate. Hire someone that’s a good team player, a champion of your brand, and a good fit culturally.
8. What is your “Why”? Why do you get up in the morning?
I have a team to support. I’m committed to our team and don’t want to let our members down. Everyday I look forward to growth, taking our next step together, and challenging ourselves to the next level of excellence.
9. What is the one thing that makes a great company?
A great company is formed by employees who are excited to deliver based on their skills, knowledge, and expertise. The strength is found in people who show up because they want to show up.
10. What is the one thing that makes a great leader?
A strong leader isn’t a dictator, but a partner and an equal with the team. It’s someone who doesn’t put themselves above everyone else but is willing to come alongside the team as a colleague. A great leader isn’t afraid of another team member who can outwork them and lead from the front.
James A. Trumbly, thank you so much for participating in the DotCom Magazine Leader Roundtable Interview Series. We very much appreciate the time you spent helping our readers learn more about what it takes to build a great company and become a great leader. We wish you, your family, and of course HMG Creative, nothing but the best.
Thanks again!
