In the latest installment of the Morning Lazziness series, which focuses on empowering women who are making a significant impact with their innovative ideas, I had the privilege of interviewing Joanna Zhang.
Joanna Zhang is the visionary founder of Operations Genius, the creator of the world’s first fractional VA service, and the proud recipient of the Stevie International Business Award in 2024 for her groundbreaking innovation. She defied conventional business practices by assembling a team that caters to multiple companies, transforming them into a shared, on-demand resource for budding entrepreneurs. Joanna’s approach proves that scaling a business doesn’t necessarily require full-time or part-time employees or lead to burnout. By integrating high-level systems with empathy, conscious leadership, and a people-centric approach, she is reshaping the way entrepreneurs grow, emphasizing flexibility, accountability, and a profound commitment to elevating people, goals, and profits together.
During our interview, Joanna shared insights into the pivotal moments, hard-earned lessons, and defining triumphs from her journey in building successful online enterprises.
What inspired you to establish your business, and what problem were you passionate about addressing?
The genesis of Operations Genius stemmed from my personal experience of feeling trapped: harboring brilliant ideas but overwhelmed by the daily grind. I observed numerous small business owners, like myself, feeling exhausted, juggling multiple roles, and losing sight of the joy that initially fueled their entrepreneurial endeavors. I was determined to change this narrative. My vision was to provide entrepreneurs with access to top-tier operational support without the constraints of a full-time or part-time team. My goal was not only to liberate their schedules but also to reignite their energy, creativity, and passion for their work.
How has your company evolved since its inception, and what pivotal decisions have contributed to its growth?
I initially assembled a dedicated team to support my own business operations. Over time, I realized that the systems, structures, and talents I had cultivated could benefit other entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. This realization led me to extend these resources to other business owners, culminating in the creation of the world’s first fractional VA service. This innovative approach allows us to offer high-level, on-demand operational assistance without the financial burdens and constraints associated with traditional employment models. This strategic decision has empowered us to cater to a diverse clientele while maintaining a strong commitment to each client’s success.
What sets your brand apart in today’s competitive market?
Our brand’s key differentiators lie in our flexibility and accountability. We excel in swiftly adapting to our clients’ evolving needs while upholding our unwavering commitment to delivering on our promises. Our clients trust us to be there for them when they need us, and they can rely on us to fulfill our commitments. Combined with our blend of practical systems and genuine concern for the individuals behind the businesses we serve, we transcend the role of a mere service provider to become a trusted ally in our clients’ growth journeys.
What has been your most effective marketing strategy thus far, and why do you believe it has been so successful?
Our most effective marketing strategy encompasses a blend of authentic storytelling, networking, and word-of-mouth referrals. By sharing genuine customer stories that focus on transformation rather than just metrics, we enable people to connect with the heart of our work. Networking has opened doors to collaborations and opportunities that traditional marketing approaches may not reach, while word-of-mouth referrals remain a potent trust-building tool. When someone shares their authentic experience, it resonates far more deeply than any advertisement.
How do you stay connected with your target audience and gain insights into their needs and behaviors?
I prioritize active listening as a means of staying connected with my target audience. Through informal check-ins and structured feedback mechanisms, I strive not only to understand what works well but also to empathetically grasp how they feel. While trends offer valuable insights, my guiding principle remains rooted in the lived experiences of my clients. By anticipating their needs before they articulate them, I foster a deeper understanding of their requirements and preferences.
What branding initiative or campaign has propelled your brand to new heights?
While winning the Stevie International Business Award in 2024 marked a significant milestone for our brand, it was more than just an accolade; it symbolized a validation of our mission. This achievement showcased that a business could blend operational excellence with genuine humanity. By sharing this victory with others, we attracted new partnerships that continue to unlock fresh opportunities for growth and collaboration.
How do you define success for your brand, beyond mere numbers, focusing on goals and impact?
For me, success manifests in hearing a client express gratitude, stating, “That was such a relief, thank you.” Success is not merely about financial gains but also about granting our clients time, peace of mind, and the freedom to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. If our work enables them to breathe easier and dream bigger, that, to me, signifies true success.
How do you personally define success, looking beyond financial metrics and growth milestones?
To me, personal success is synonymous with alignment. Running a business that reflects my values, supports my family, empowers my team, and enriches the lives of those we serve embodies success. I believe that wealth follows purpose. If my endeavors have a meaningful impact that resonates with my soul, I consider myself on the right path.
Can you share a challenge or setback that ultimately transformed your brand’s trajectory?
In the early stages, I attempted to cater to every client without discernment. While my intentions were noble, this approach spread me thin and led to burnout. I realized that my most impactful work transpires when I collaborate with clients who share my values. Establishing these boundaries was a challenging yet pivotal moment that shifted my business from survival mode to purpose-driven growth.
What daily rituals or habits help you maintain focus, foster creativity, and lead effectively?
Each day, I commence by centering myself, ensuring that my intentions are rooted in compassion and a desire to elevate myself, others, and the world around me. From this grounded state, I allow intuition to guide my priorities for the day, all while honoring every commitment I make. This delicate balance between empowerment and accountability keeps me focused, aligned, and efficient.
How do you approach innovation and risk within your business strategy?
I view innovation as a catalyst for growth. Every enhancement we implement is designed to alleviate our clients’ burdens. Risk, to me, is not about blindly following trends; it entails identifying opportunities that align with our mission and seizing them with courage and clarity.
What advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs venturing into today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape?
Begin with a purpose-driven strategy. Understand who you aim to serve, why they matter to you, and what transformative impact you aspire to deliver. While tools and trends may evolve, a mission-driven foundation enables you to adapt authentically and effectively.
Where can individuals connect with you and explore more about your work and offerings?
You can reach out to me via LinkedIn or visit Operations Genius for further insights into our fractional VA service and how we empower entrepreneurs to scale sustainably with operational freedom and a human touch.
In conclusion, Joanna Zhang’s entrepreneurial journey exemplifies the power of blending operational excellence with empathy, conscious leadership, and a people-centric approach. Through her innovative approach to scaling businesses, she has redefined success not solely in financial terms but in the profound impact on individuals’ lives and aspirations. As she continues to empower entrepreneurs to realize their dreams, Joanna sets a compelling example for aspiring business leaders navigating the dynamic digital landscape.