Renee Yeager is the founder and CEO of Yeager Marketing, which specializes in helping B2B technology leaders streamline customer acquisition and accelerate growth. Yeager Marketing has worked with more than one-third of the technology companies in the Fortune 500.
What part of Arizona do you call home?
The Desert Ridge area of Phoenix.
How did you get started as an entrepreneur?
I spent years in marketing director roles hiring and managing agencies and saw what could be done better to meet the needs of the corporate client. This was what I set out to do in my consulting practice, although I always believed it could evolve into an agency. As we’ve built our team over the years, we have continued to focus on creating new and differentiated services and value for our clients. I believe this focus and commitment is what has propelled our success.
What was your very first entrepreneurial venture?
Starting my consulting business in 2003. I left my last corporate job in 2002 after the birth of my oldest son and began consulting to maintain my career with a more flexible schedule.
How did you come up with the idea for Yeager Marketing?
Before going out on my own, I spent 15 years working in technology marketing for corporations, with my last corporate job running an internal agency for a large technology distributor. It’s something I knew I could do well and improve upon as a service provider.
What is your favorite part about running a business?
I love bringing talented people together to build a team and create something of value.
What was the biggest challenge in executing your business idea?
In the beginning I was intimidated at the thought of doing sales. Once I changed my mindset to be less about selling and more about helping, everything changed.
How long have you lived or worked in Arizona?
I just celebrated 20 years living in Arizona. It’s been exciting to watch the startup community take off in our state. I’m also excited by the number of tech companies that are either launching here or moving here. Arizona is on its way to becoming a center for innovation.
If you could only describe your city with one word, which word would it be?
Burgeoning.
What’s your favorite thing about living in Arizona?
I love that you can have vastly different experiences within a 2-hour drive.
What’s your least favorite thing about living in Arizona?
Lots of driving.
In what area do you think Arizona still has a long way to go?
As the Arizona business community grows and technology continues to advance, the need for skilled technical workers also increases. For our state to be a serious contender as a tech hub, we need to be able to meet the hiring needs of our companies, either by attracting out-of-state talent to relocate here, or by retaining our college graduates. This starts with competitive salaries and opportunities, as well as an environment that meets the needs of families.
The foodie scene is growing bigger and bigger by the day here in Arizona. What is your favorite place to get breakfast in your city?
Lately my favorite is First Watch in Grayhawk. They have some really nice fresh juices and a fantastic avocado toast.
What’s your favorite place to grab lunch?
We’re regulars at Modern Margarita at High Street. They have great tacos and it’s right down the street from our office.
What’s your favorite dinner spot?
Ocotillo. Great menu and atmosphere.
What is your favorite memory from Arizona?
We’ve done some amazing hikes all over the state. Sedona, in particular, has been outstanding.
What is a common misconception about living in Arizona?
That it does actually get cold here. December mornings in the 40’s beg for a jacket and you will put your heater on.
Any tips for new Arizona residents?
Be mindful of scorpions, especially if you’re working in your yard or garage. You’ll know if you get stung. Don’t panic.
