Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in human resources but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Claudell Maggio, CEO of Greear Consultant Group, LLC., located in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
As an HR consulting firm, we assist businesses of all sizes to stay compliant with employment laws. We build HR infrastructures and give advice on a variety of HR-related problems. Most of our clients are no larger than 350 employees, and some as small as 5; in all cases, outsourcing HR is a cost-effective way to stay up to date on laws and make sure your processes will not accidentally get you in trouble. We serve a diverse group of clients, from warehouses and manufacturing to doctors' offices and restaurants; our specialty is multi-unit, multi-state. There is no such thing as a one size fits all HR approach; we are uniquely positioned to become intimately familiar with our clients and develop with them HR solutions that make sense for them.
Tell us about yourself
I started in HR after leaving the police department in Burlington, MA; I started as a recruiter for a security company back in the day. While recruiting was ok, and I really admire people who choose that as their professional life, it wasn't a passion for me. My passion lies in law and training. I was a trainer for the Massachusetts State Police Academy for ten years, and nothing makes my day like mentoring a young manager (time in service, not age) and seeing them get it. Managing people correctly and getting the most from them because they want to give it to you is what makes any business successful. In my management training classes, I get to watch as lightbulbs go off and the managers grasp the concept of the humanity of management. It is the most fulfilling part of my day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
This a two-fold answer; I still, after 13 years of owning my own business, have my very first client, which says something about how intimately familiar GCG can get with a client. What I am the proudest of is that the client has a young lady who I have mentored. She has developed into a very savvy HR professional and now reminds me if I forget a process or legal requirement.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
When you own a business, you are completely responsible for its success and the success of consultants that support the clients. Fear can get in the way, self-doubt can hold you back, and when you are a business owner, you can not let your fears ripple out to others; you have to look it straight in the eye and say, "I got this" or "Naysayers be gone."
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Start a business doing something you LOVE, not like. Research before you start; lots of companies make widgets; what about your widget is special?
- Do not trip over dollars to save pennies.
- Be confident in yourself and your ability.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://greeargroup.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreearConsultantGroup
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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