Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in finance but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Naheed Gilani, Founder of Conscious Wealth, located in Calgary, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We give people the knowledge they need to take control of their investing - whether that be a DIY approach or simply learning to challenge their 'advisors' so they stop getting fleeced. Our clients have decided they want to take a somewhat active role in the improvement of their situation.
Tell us about yourself
I grew up in a very entrepreneurial family. Having a university education gave me a slate of opportunities that differed from my parent's generation. I have spent over a dozen years in the conventional financial services industry, and it is obvious things need to change. Gouging of fees, legal jargon in investment agreements, preying on vulnerable clients, and so on all shocked me into action.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have saved numerous clients many tens of thousands of dollars by teaching them the importance of exiting speculative / highly concentrated positions they got caught up in either through bad advice or DIY investing.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The uncertainty of income and growth of the business. There is a huge need for fee-for-service financial advice, but I prefer to let business come naturally through referrals rather than spending time and money on marketing.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Avoid businesses with high overhead unless you're truly ready to risk it all. If you're not ready to do a thorough business plan and have it vetted, you're not ready to do business. Be very discerning when establishing business partnerships, and seek proper advice!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://consciouswealth.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/consciouswealthcommunity
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consciouswealth1/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NaheedGilani
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/naheedgilani/
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.
