Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Super Dave Quinn, CEcD Managing Partner of Day One Experts, located in Frisco, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Day One Experts is an on-demand economic development consulting firm that solves interesting problems by connecting the public and private sectors. We provide value to our clients from day one and build win-win partnerships that create long-term value. Our customers are economic development organizations, cities, private developers, and business owners.
Tell us about yourself
I began in economic development in 2004 with a desire to create a better place to live for my family and because my mother-in-law suggested I apply for the assistant city manager job position. All these years later, I wake up each day with a single goal. To be a difference maker.
That's it. If I can go to bed at night knowing I have created some positive change in the world, then that day was not wasted. I'm blessed to work in an industry that allows me to help shape the future for so many people.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Staying in business through COVID. Our team adapted to the changing landscape of our industry and met the challenge head-on. We provided value to our customers and came out the other side better after having gone through the pandemic. I wouldn't recommend it as a way to gain experience, but I can now look back and be proud of how we managed our way through.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest part is dealing with the rollercoaster of emotions. One day I can feel like I'm a rockstar and everything just comes easy, and the next, it can feel like I'm a complete and utter failure that should just go find a job.
No one warned me about that part of being a business owner. I saw other successful business owners and thought they had everything figured out. Then I went through GoldmanSachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and met successful business owners dealing with the same emotional struggles.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Understand from the beginning what you are getting into. It's going to be harder, take longer and cost more money than you think.
- Accept there will be great days, okay days, and hard days. Learn to ride the waves. Don't fight them.
- Find a tribe of like-minded business owners. The entrepreneurial journey is a long and treacherous adventure, and surrounding yourself with good people who can help you through the dips and celebrate the wins with you. Life is short, and at the end of the day, it's about learning to love the moment you are in.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://d1experts.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/D1Experts
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/D1Experts/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/D1Experts
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/DaveQuinn247/
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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