Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jason Watson, Founder and CEO of Recon K9 LLC., located in Charlotte, NC, USA.

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

We produce tactical K9 equipment for law enforcement, military, and federal agencies throughout the world.

Tell us about yourself

I began my entrepreneurial career in 2006 when I developed my first waterproof dog collar. This concept was born from the need to have a collar that didn't stink on my German Shepherd and Labrador, who loved being in the water. I began designing and creating products for the pet market, which led Remington Outdoors to purchase that company in 2012. It was then that I was introduced to the military market with the United States Army at Ft. Bragg. I have been working with elite military and armed forces throughout the world ever since.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment was taking that first step by believing in my initial product enough to focus solely on making that a reality. Once to market, it required being humble enough to allow the customer to help define what that product should ultimately be and do.

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

You cannot be all things to all people. You need to understand and appreciate what you're good at and focus on that. Customers are going to come to you when you're the true expert and best at what you do. Trying to serve too many masters makes that almost impossible.

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

  1. Make sure you have enough capital to bring your business idea to market in the right way with the right about of marketing to support it and get the word out.
  2. Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you. You might be the bold one willing to make a move, but that doesn't mean you have all the answers. Find individuals with complimentary skill sets that will amplify your ability to do great things. It does take more than one person to make it amazing.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Be willing to take risks, and most of all, make a decision and go with it.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://reconk9.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReconK9USA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reconk9/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasontwatson/

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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