By Ross Sapir, founder and CEO of Roadway Moving
Most successful individuals don’t start their career off daydreaming about working under their bosses, they’re daydreaming about being the boss. It takes a specific type of person to be able to make this daydream a reality though, regardless of the industry you’re in.
Perseverance, persistence and potential are three important words every entrepreneur must have engrained in their psyche when first starting out. Never give up, never stop trying and never underestimate what you can do and what you have to offer. Believing in those three words will garner you success in whichever industry you feel passionate for.
The following are five key pieces of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs that have helped me garner my successful business:
1. Build a support network.
Once you’ve made the commitment to your business, you need to develop a support system around you of advisors, partners, allies and vendors. When you believe in your business, others will too. Try networking with individuals locally, nationally, through social networks and attend events with others having similar interests as you.
2. Employees come first.
One of the most important things to do is take care of your people first and your company. Do not pay yourself your dream salary, don’t stop investing every dollar back into the company, especially in the first few years (5-10). Never forget that happy and proud employees will bring happy customers.
3. Love what you do.
Having a strong passion for what you’re doing is the key to starting your own business. If you are not personally 100% invested in your company, then no one around you will be either. Set the example for your employees, investors and partners to be as committed and passionate about your company. Drive and determination are the two things that are guaranteed to help your business grow and move your needle.
4. Every opportunity is a lesson.
Any successful entrepreneur had a job prior to starting their own company. Spending a couple years working under the right mentor can help shape your career as an entrepreneur and fellow leader in any industry. Ask questions, make mistakes and learn from each and every opportunity you find yourself in, as there is no greater teacher than life itself.
5. Get the word out.
Be proud of the company you’ve started by being able to say who you are and what you do with assertion and without apology. Take full advantage of living in a society focused around the Internet and social media; Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and online reviews can be the best thing for your business if used correctly. That being said, word-of-mouth marketing, website, e-mail and the old-fashioned telephone are still vital aspects to spreading the word of your business.
6. Business planning improves your chances for success.
Most people think planning will hinder your success. In reality, people who put together a business plan for themselves are able to gain clarity, confidence and can focus better on their end goal. A plan doesn’t need to be more than one page, but as you write down your goals, strategies and action steps, you’ll notice your business becoming a reality in front of your eyes.
The most important aspect of these five tips are not only to follow them, but to NEVER stop following them. That is where true success and entrepreneurism lies.
Ross Sapir is the founder and CEO of New York City’s premiere moving and storage company Roadway Moving. He is a longtime veteran of the moving industry with over 16 years of experience. Ross started his career at one of the top moving companies and quickly excelled in his role. Following his success, Ross decided to open his own company, with a vision to provide the upmost quality moving services to customers, leading to the inception of Roadway Moving in 2008.
