The Speed of Change

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in leadership development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jonathan Reitz, CEO of FLUXIFY, located in Cleveland, OH, USA.

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

I am a coach trainer and executive coach. In my coaching practice, I work with leaders who have people following them and who are starting something new. FLUXIFY's coach training works with individuals developing coaching skills or organizational Learning & Development Teams looking to develop a coaching culture.

Tell us about yourself

I discovered coaching during my career in the broadcasting business. I joined a team of my co-workers at a three-day off-site event designed to foster innovation.

The people up the organizational chart brought in an outside professional to lead the sessions. In the first 45 minutes, this pro catalyzed decisions that seemed out of reach at the start of the day. The team made implementation plans (with timelines! ), and the company changed directions.

I was amazed, and I went up to the facilitator at the first break. I asked, "What is this skill set you’re using?" Coaching was the answer, so I asked a follow-up question: "How do I learn to do what you’re doing?"

The conversation launched my coaching career! "25 years ago now, and I’ve coached virtually every day."

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I am a 15-year overnight success. It took us 5–6 years to really find our groove, but we've had ten straight profitable years with growth in the double digits the last eight years. That feels great when coaching is both what gets me up in the morning and what keeps me up at night!

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

It's so tempting to build an audience because you think notoriety will help your business. It usually does, but there's got to be a reason for your audience to connect with you. You're actually building your business, not just an audience for what you have to say. Getting the call to action right can be an incredible challenge. Every time you interact with your audience, there should be a next step—something they can do to deepen your relationship or connection.

You can give, give, give, but if the next steps aren't clearly thought through, it doesn't always pay off. It's step-by-step and has to be going somewhere. Keep focused, and continuously invite your audience to take the next step. That's how you build a business. The same advice goes for partners who will help you build something that lasts.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

This is a great question.

Start collecting email addresses before you think you'll need them. Your list will help you through the hard times, and there will be hard times.
Say no to everything that doesn't have you saying, "Hell yes!" You only have so much energy, and the things that don't have notable upside will stretch you beyond what makes sense for you.
Surround yourself with people who share your vision and are excited to work with you. Their energy will help sustain you when the tough times come—and I have said it before, there will be tough times!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://fluxify.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Fluxify
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathanreitz/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonathanreitz
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanreitz/

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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