Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mark Grimm, Founder of Mark Grimm Communications, located in Schenectady, NY, USA.

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

If you're looking for a new superpower, contact Mark Grimm Communications. I offer unique public speaking coaching that a client once said gave him a "new superpower." It is unique because I don't give you a few tips and send you on your way. You receive a new approach to public speaking that I have uncovered in my own life that will also change yours. I also provide high-energy, entertaining keynote speeches and seminars that inspire audiences and lead them to take action. It is a "wow" experience. Grimm Academy is a captivating reservoir of dozens of self-help videos that are available to everyone free of charge. My typical clients are associations and companies looking for an awesome keynote or workshop speaker on a number of key topics. I also attract rising star professionals moving up the ladder who realize they need to improve their public speaking to get where they want to go.

Tell us about yourself

I'm one of nine kids, so I learned at an early age I had to speak up for myself to get noticed. I was a TV news anchor for 12 years and a radio host for 14 years. I've conducted one-on-one interviews with Presidents Bush and Clinton. I started my own business more than 20 years ago because I was passionate about helping people improve the way they communicate. It can mean so much to their life. The scores of wonderful testimonials from people I help are a heartwarming reminder of how important good coaching can be. It also puts a boost in my step each day.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The steady stream of really satisfied clients is the most rewarding aspect of what I do.

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

Though you may really enjoy what you do, you also have to keep up on the business aspects of the company ---- sales, marketing, financials, networking, etc. That's a challenge when you really want to spend your time doing what you do best.

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

  1. Follow your passion and choose what you love. A love for what you do and hunger for always getting better at it will keep you in business.
  2. Always remember, it is not about you; it is about them --- your customers. What are you doing to help them?
  3. Clarity! Can you explain, in clear, simple terms, why someone should choose you over everyone else? Simplicity is not simple; it is a skill.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I didn't mention that I am also a county legislator. I got into politics because I knew I could help people if I stayed focused on being their advocate. Business and politics are very similar in that way. Helping people never gets old!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: http://markgrimm.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrimmBusinessSeminars
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themarkgrimm/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgrimm
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themarkgrimm/

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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