Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Leia Shilobod, CEO of InTech Solutions, Inc., located in Greensburg, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
InTech Solutions provides managed IT, compliance, and cybersecurity program services to manufacturers and companies in the Defense Industrial Base. We work best with companies who are results-driven and want a roadmap to security and compliance while receiving the best in cybersecurity tools, infrastructure deployment, and help desk services. Our 3 Non-Negotiables are: Security Is Paramount. Detailed Documentation. Excellence in Communication.
Tell us about yourself
I started my first business at 23 because I felt like I wanted to build "something." That's when I realized I'm a solutions-focused entrepreneur who will never be happy unless I'm building a product or service that's providing massive value to the marketplace and a team who is 110% engaged in delivery. I founded InTech in 2006, not knowing much about IT but falling in love with the constant change and huge body of knowledge. Having insatiable curiosity, I've worked tirelessly to figure out to create and implement cybersecurity and compliance programs that make sense, are efficient and are effective.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Wow. That's hard. I guess the biggest accomplishment is recognizing that, literally, anything is possible, and if I feel like it's not, that I have a problem between my ears (in my brain). When you actually understand, then embody this knowledge, you break through your own barriers, and nothing can hold you back.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
They say, "you can't be a lion unless you do the lion shit." That means the uncomfortable conversations with clients and team members, the early mornings/late nights/weekends when things just have to get done, and the discipline to wake up every morning ready to get at it. It's the hardest and the BEST thing about owning a business and refusing to not succeed.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- You're going to fail. Get used to it really quickly and iterate, iterate, iterate until you're successful.
- Maintain an "abundance mindset." Anytime you feel scared, or like you're having problems finding/closing deals, or you think there isn't enough business to go around, you're in scarcity - it will kill your business.
- Flood your sensory diet with positive and successful people and information: your friend group, social media, the movies/shows you watch - everything. It makes a huge difference in your mindset.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.intechit.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leia.shilobod
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leiashilobod/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/princessleia/
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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