Simplifying Smart Devices for Consumers

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mark Westlake, CEO and Founder of GearBrain, located in New York, NY, USA.

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

GearBrain helps users find, buy and connect smart devices. We also help retailers, manufacturers and installers simplify the purchasing, integration, and management of these smart solutions. Our open IoT marketplace consists of a patent product find engine, a Q&A platform (FAQs), and a content site.

Tell us about yourself

I started GearBrain because I got tired of making other people money and wanted to do it for myself. I also saw an opportunity that no one else saw: helping consumers navigate our new connected world. What motivates me every day is seeing my business grow each day and how it helps both buyers and sellers of smart devices.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Taking an idea and turning it into a business. It's the hardest thing I have ever done but the most rewarding.

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

Being able to see your vision through on your own. One of the things I learned from starting my own business is how to get the job done when it's only you. There will be days founders will feel lonely because it's just you doing everything to move the business forward. But over time, as your business grows, so does the company, and those lonely days are behind you, which is very rewarding.

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

Make sure you have enough personal money to survive on your own for at least two years. It will take that long to get traction.
Make sure you get a good group of advisors with the right expertise to help you grow. Don't get friends unless they have the expertise you need.
Make sure your idea is sound and works. The more you can prove the business with an MVP (minimum viable product), the better.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.gearbrain.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GearBraininc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gearbraininc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/gearbrain
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwestlake/

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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