Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Eric Tepper, Founder of Sales Architect, located in Chicago, IL, USA.

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

Sales Architect helps business owners and operators in the fitness, health, and wellness industry make more money. We do this through a virtual platform of live conversations and pre-recorded videos on revenue-generating strategies, tools, and coaching. We service anyone in the fitness, health, and wellness business who wants to generate more revenue and be a part of an interactive community of other passionate industry individuals. You could think of me as a fractional Sales Leader for your company.

Tell us about yourself

I stumbled into the fitness industry over 26 years ago because I loved working out. As a starving actor, I needed a day job. It was like a duck to water. Within a few months, I was a manager of my own location and built from there. Many entrepreneurs go into the fitness, health, and wellness business because they love health and want to share that with people. However, many have never been in the fitness business, and it has its unique challenges. During the pandemic, business owners reached out to me, asking if they could have a few minutes to bounce an idea off me. I realized I didn't want to help one company thrive. I wanted everyone in my industry to thrive. The fitness, health, and wellness business is a business of the heart. You love helping people through health and wellness. If someone has that passion, I want them to have the key strategies and coaching to be successful.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Within 2 months of launching Sales Architect, I'm working with approximately 90 people across 6 different brands. My first multi-location client is seeing consistent month-over-month growth in their sales. I love seeing the light bulb go on in someone's head when what I present clicks for them and makes a difference in their business.

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

Managing my own expectations. I have a vision of what my business will look like when it is in full swing and the difference it will make for businesses. In my head, I'm like, "Who wouldn't want this?? It pays for itself!" During the ramp-up period, I will have virtual meetings where no one shows up because my member base isn't big enough yet. Any time that happens, I question, "Was this a bad move??? Will I make it??? What was I thinking???" That journey between the start and sustainable business is unsettling.

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

  1. Do something you love. If you are going to be married to this business for years to come, you should enjoy what you do. You will also be more effective when it's something you are passionate about. Loving what you do makes work fun!
  2. Network network network! People genuinely want to help you succeed. Carve out at least an hour a day to connect with people and have conversations. Some won't yield anything, and some will be magic.
  3. Use a coach. Tony Robbins says success leaves clues. There most likely have been people before you who have succeeded in what you do. Use someone with subject matter expertise to help you succeed. Once you succeed, keep using someone with an outsider's perspective. It's easy to keep doing the same thing. An outsider's expert view can be a lifeline when you are starting out, but it can be a valuable resource even when you are already successful.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.gymsalesarchitect.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Gymsalesarchitect
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tepper_eric/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gymsalesarchitect/

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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