Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rob Chamberlin, President of True Security East Bay LLC. dba Security 101, located in Pleasanton, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Security 101 - San Francisco Bay Area & Sacramento helps business customers protect their people, property, and profits. We install and support best-in-class access control, video surveillance, and intrusion detection systems for businesses of all sizes.
Tell us about yourself
I founded and operated two technology companies prior to starting Security 101 in 2019. It was interesting to move into commercial security after 20+ years in telecom, but I saw a huge opportunity in Northern California for a commercial security integrator like Security 101. I believe we can grow 10x over the next 7-10 years, which is very exciting to think about.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I'm particularly proud of building companies that successfully scaled and supported not only our customers but also our employees and their families.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest thing is the realization that no one cares about the business as much as you do. It's important to hire people who think like owners - not employees.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Assess your strengths and weaknesses (be honest) to give yourself the best chance of success when choosing a business opportunity to pursue.
- Let revenue lead expenses. Don't spend unnecessarily, and focus on driving revenue.
- Build a network of trusted advisors (advisory board, CEO peer groups, etc.) to help you on your journey.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.security101.com/sanfrancisco
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rob_chamberlin
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robchamberlin/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.