Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in training and education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with James Johnson, Owner of Creative Educational Solutions, located in Tucson, AZ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Our company is called Creative Educational Solutions. We are a small, independently owned and operated business located in Tucson, Arizona. Our primary focus is within the Food Service industry. We offer tailor-made programs for both individuals and groups looking to become Food Safety / Sanitation trained and certified.
We also offer companies of all sizes our full-service consulting services, which include creating and implementing training programs and training materials for their employees. As well as Food safety inspections and staff development.
Tell us about yourself
I have been working in the food service industry for almost thirty-five years. I started out wanting to be a chef. After reaching most of my goals, I decided to take a left turn and get a degree in education and become a high school teacher (culinary arts, of course). After eleven years in the classroom, I developed medical issues that required me to take another unexpected turn. I went back to the food service world in the role of Food service director for assisted living facilities. My focus as a director changed to more of an educator for my staff, and that is when I started creating and implementing training programs for my staff.
Wanting a change from the corporate world and the 9 to 5 life, I decided to start my own business doing what I love in an environment that I enjoy. Ten years later, here we are. My motivation every day comes from seeing the positive impact that I have on the people I work with. I get to help others build knowledge and skills that allow them the opportunity to become better at what they love doing.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would say the biggest accomplishment as a business owner, other than providing for my family, is becoming recognized by my peers as an expert in my field.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I must admit, one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is marketing myself and my company. I am not what you would call a salesman, so I feel that the sales aspect I find the most difficult.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Find something you love to do, and figure out how to make money doing that.
- Never listen to anyone that tells you, “you can’t do it.”
- Never be afraid to ask for help; no one ever got rich without help of some kind.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://cestraining.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-johnson-03089431/
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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