Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tom Shay, Principal of Profits Plus Solutions, located in Dardanelle, AR, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We teach small business management to owners and managers of small businesses. Our customers are those who create trade shows and educational events for these people who may be their customers or are people attending their event.
Tell us about yourself
I am a fourth-generation small business owner. Although I did try a couple of times to work for a company, I quickly found it was not for me. What motivates me is knowing I make a measurable difference in the lives of small business owners, as I am the most qualified individual to do so in North America.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have experienced it many times; it is when an owner of a small business tells me that what they learned from me has made a big difference in their business. Many times it has been saving a business from bankruptcy.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
With the businesses I have taught, their biggest challenge is that of self-discipline to improve their business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Know what you are talking about. Don't get greedy financially. Be disciplined to put the time and effort into improving yourself and your business.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
We are very unique in our business approach. The audience is not our customer; our customer is the organization producing the event the small business owner is attending.
We also do not sell to small business owners. The overwhelming majority of people "somewhat similar" to us are busy trying to sell their products and services to people in the audience. They were hired to teach; instead, they are trying to sell the audience members on the idea of hiring that speaker or buying their products.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://profitsplus.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ftomshay
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FTomShay
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomshay/
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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