Brad Imming of SEMpathfinder: Helping Hospitality Brands Attract More Tourists and Travelers

This is part of our series highlighting businesses that have been operating for two years or less. In this article Brad Imming shares her experiences and insights since opening SEMpathfinder.


How did your business get started?

The digital marketing agency I previously worked for closed. Rather than get a 9-5 I started my own Digital Marketing Consultancy.

Who do you serve and why?

I serve Tourism and Hospitality brands who need help with Search Engine Marketing. SEO, PPC, Reputation Management, Paid Social, Influencer Marketing.

What makes your service different?

Rather than have a physical office I travel the country to meet business owners face to face and build the relationship.

What obstacles did you have to overcome in order to start your business?

Not having a full-time job as a bridge into freelancing/consulting makes it tough to keep up with student loans, cost of living, and operating expenses. So I’ve had to drive with Uber/Lyft part-time to keep up with the bills.

What has been the most rewarding experience for you since starting your business?

As a frequent traveler I rely on the recommendations of fellow travelers. So it is rewarding to work with brands I would recommend to others and help other travelers find out about their experience.

What has been the biggest mistake/lesson you’ve learned?

Focusing too much on my branding/website, while not focusing on increasing income through new client relationships.

If you could do it all over again, what one thing would you do differently, and why?

I would have focused in on a niche (tourism/hospitality) sooner, rather than going after “everyone.”

How do you keep things fun and interesting for yourself?

Travel is my passion, so being able to enjoy some personal travel while on business trips keeps things fun and interesting.

Who do you admire and how has that person helped you to reach your current level of success?

It’s not a single person, but instead a group of 60 people in the Mastermind I am a part of. With different backgrounds, each of them are able to give me unique advice for my business, while all of them can keep me accountable and focused.

What is your primary business focus for the next 12 months?

Increase the number of clients I have on retainer through networking in person at conferences/businesses, as well as online on LinkedIn.

Philipp Lomboy

Philipp Lomboy is a Los Angeles-based writer covering business, leadership, and innovation. He is also a podcast host and author of the bestselling books "The 5-Star Formula" and "Bodybuilders in Tutus and 35 Other Obscure Business-Boosting Observations". His work has been seen on BusinessWeek.com, USAToday.com, and CNN.com.