I met Sean Branigan, president of Communigration, when he gave a presentation that was a part of the series “Talking Business: A Conversation With…” held here in the Syracuse area. I actually wrote about it on my other blog. I found him to be a very engaging and self deprecating guy, but he’s got a great business sense, and part of his talk has given me a lot to think about as I push my business forward.

1. What is Communigration?

We are a technology and interactive marketing firm. We work with technology companies to provide strategy, marketing communications, product marketing, research and other services to help them identify, attract, get and keep customers. We work with clients all over the world who sell technical products and services to business customers and usually include work with online and interactive media to achieve their marketing and growth objectives. For clients in a wider variety of clients (retail, non-profit, services, etc), we provide interactive marketing services -- making use of online and interactive media. We create strategies, develop and implement these media and online services, communities and capabilities.

2. What made you decide to go into this business?

I had to. I've worked for myself for most of my career and this is another in a string of new businesses I've started and managed.

3. What types of challenges have you had along the way?

All kinds of financial, personal, personnel/staffing, clients and all manner of challenges. The enjoyment is found in the challlenges! You have to revel in the mess.

4. Have the positives outweighed the negatives, and if so, how?

The personal freedoms have been the biggest advantage to outweigh the negatives... and I LIKE to work. With the freedom comes the responsibility to work hard, manage customer expectations (balanced with personal and other commitments) and DELIVER for your customers/clients. I like that.

5. What would you recommend for anyone looking to go into business for themselves?

Don't think of it as working for yourself... think about it as you work for EVERYONE -- all your clients. As you grow and become more successful, you then have the luxury of being able to PICK your customers/clients, and that makes for rewarding relationships, projects and learning experiences. You have to enjoy the thrill. You have to enjoy the ups and downs.