Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Robin Reed, co-founder of EmFluent, LLC., located in Phoenix, AZ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
EmFluent, is a corporate consulting firm that works with mission-driven companies that believe the key to their success starts with their teams. We combine behavioral and cognitive analytics with experienced consulting services to help align organizations with their strategy and then assist in identifying the best team dynamics for executing the strategy.
Tell us about yourself
2 1/2 years ago, we noticed that many companies were attempting to adopt a "people-first" strategy without any true knowledge of their people. Seeing the opportunity to better connect people to a strategy, we researched the top companies providing analytics with which we could pair our consulting services. Because we are committed to working with mission-driven organizations, we're motivated each day to help our clients achieve their respective missions while creating or maintaining healthy and productive company culture.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
When I was in my 20's, I acted as a "Fractional COO" to assist the ownership of a small chain of neighborhood video stores (remember those?!), streamline operations, maximize inventory ROI and ultimately increase its market value by 10X. I eventually identified a buyer and brokered the sale of the company.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Having the patience to give your ideas or strategies an opportunity to develop.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Build a team around you. Starting with your business banker and including your bookkeeper/CPA and an attorney. It's always good to have a mentor as well.
- Don't wait until everything is "perfect" before you try to generate revenue.
- prepare yourself financially for the reality that your road to profitability may take 4X longer than you think.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I would encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to be honest with themselves
are starting a business by design, desire, or necessity. Knowing which of these applies to you will often indicate how you'll respond when faced with the inevitable challenges that come with entrepreneurship.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://emfluent.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emfluentConsultingAgency/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/EmFluent_AZ/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/emfluent_coach
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinsreed/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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