Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Yasmine Jandali, founder of Starwood Business Group, located in Alpharetta, GA, USA.

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

We are an experienced, professional business brokerage firm that has been helping metro ATL business owners since 2005. We were proud to have been selected as the "Best Brokers in Atlanta" for 2021.

Our clients are local business owners who have decided that they are ready to move on to the next chapter in their journey. We help them value their business, list it confidentially, then work with prospective buyers to help get them the best price and structure for their business.

Over the years, we have helped hundreds of buyers and sellers achieve their goals and are extremely proud of the important part we play in keeping our community businesses under local ownership.

Tell us about yourself

I got into this industry after successfully starting, growing, and then selling my own businesses. It was thrilling to see the fruits of my labor and then pass the baton on to the next person who would continue to grow and improve the business.

I love learning about different industries and businesses and am always amazed by the truly interesting ways people find to earn a living! There are so many creative ideas out there, and I'm excited that I get to be a small part of the entrepreneur's journey.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Definitely helping an owner of a well-established business see their company and vision continue to grow. It is very satisfying when the buyer and seller are a perfect fit and help each other achieve their mutual goals.

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

Being a business owner is most definitely a commitment. It is not just a full-time job, it is a lifestyle. You are responsible for all the decisions, and the success or failure of the enterprise depends on you. So it is a lot of pressure, but it can also be the most rewarding experience if you take the time to learn from other successful business owners.

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 working capital to carry you through until your business takes off. That could be one year, it could be three. But don't spend all your money on startup expenses!
  2. Know your business inside out. In order to teach your staff, you need to know the business. Then you can train appropriately, know when someone is not performing well, and be able to jump in if needed.
  3. Keep really good books and records from day one! Business owners often don't consider the importance of maintaining their financials. If you start off on the right foot, you will be that much better off. Knowing your financial situation helps you avoid major surprises and allows you to adjust course quickly if necessary. You will be prepared and professional if you ever need to apply to a bank for a loan or line of credit. And when you decide to sell your business, you will be ready to work with prospective buyers.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://starwoodbusinessgroup.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarwoodBusinessGroup/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starwoodbusinessgroup/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/StarwoodGroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yasminejandali/


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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