Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Robert Antoshak, Partner of Gherzi Textile Organization, located in Nashville, TN, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Gherzi is the leader in the strategic development and expansion of companies in the textile industry, from production to retail. Our services range from the engineering of new factories to strategy consulting as well as corporate finance. For more than 90 years, Gherzi has worked on behalf of manufacturers, merchants, brands, and retailers. With offices around the world, more than 120 Gherzi consultants work with clients throughout the complete textile supply chain — from field to shelf, fibers to retail. Gherzi-USA is the newest office of the Zurich-based Gherzi Textile Organization.

Tell us about yourself

I began my career working for industry trade associations learning about the textile and apparel business from a policy perspective, but from there branched out into consulting as I learned more about the textile and apparel sector. As a consultant, I enjoy the constant challenges and opportunities afforded to me by my clientele. In turn, it is solving problems for my clients, as well as bringing new ideas from concept to realization.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been to successfully deliver results and value to my clients.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

I learned early on that there's a difference between gambling and a calculated risk. Consulting is an open-ended occupation in that a constant flow of new work is necessary to be successful. How that work is secured remains speculative until realized -- hence, there is an element of risk. Learning to calculate that risk and develop strategies to manage risk provides the best means of attaining rewards. Nothing is certain, but managing risk can result in successful outcomes without having to roll the dice.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Here are three tips for any consultant:

  1. Know your priorities. The interests of your clients come first.
  2. Create new ideas and approaches. Constantly invent new and creative ways of doing business to further your client's goals.
  3. Remember humility. Remain in the background in support of your client's objectives.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website:
https://www.gherzi-usa.com/
https://www.fromfieldtoshelf.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robert.antoshak
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rantoshak
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rantoshak/

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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