Zach Benson is the founder and CEO of Assistagram, an Instagram marketing agency focused on forging relationships with real people to grow an authentic and engaged Instagram audience. Assistagram does this by getting real follows in the client’s niche, creating viral content that excites those followers, and having influencers follow their profile to lend social credibility.
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
I loved the freedom to build the life I wanted. Whether that was the freedom to travel or the freedom to choose my work, I wanted the opportunity to shape my own life.
Was there ever a moment where you almost gave up?
I didn’t have many clients early on. The few I did have I was massively undercharging just to get experience, so losing a $3K client all the sudden was huge. My income dropped. I was ready to give up.
I reached out to a friend to see if he could get me an internship at his company instead, but luckily he talked me out of it. He reminded me why I wanted to be an entrepreneur in the first place — to have freedom. And I wouldn’t get that if he got me hired. Honestly, I’m so glad he refused. I refocused all my energy on Assistagram and I’m proud to say that it’s thriving.
Is there anyone who helped you get to where you are today?
My community. I was adopted from South Korea to Iowa when I was 5 months old. I spent most of my life in Iowa, including my college years, and I consider myself very lucky to have grown up in that area. During the pandemic, I’m giving back to the community that supported me by doing social media work for hotels and restaurants where I grew up.
And, my parents. I had such a good model for integrity and honesty just by growing up with them. They always keep their promises and are simple, stress-free people. I really try to live my life like them.
Be sure to follow Zach on Instagram!