Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Samuel Kaufman, CEO of On The Level Construction, LLC., located in North Charleston, SC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am the CEO of On The Level Construction, LLC. Our customers are homeowners who are ready to let us help them create the kitchen or bathroom space that they dream of.
Tell us about yourself
I started out in the industry as a cabinet installer by trade at 23 years old. It did not take long for me to see a massive issue in the contracting space regarding communication, efficiency, and the general lack of leadership. I believed in my heart there was a better way to operate and grow a business in the construction space from a customer and employee perspective. What motivates me every single day to lead the company I lead is the people. We are a core value-focused business, and the people that are attracted to come work for us because of it are nothing short of amazing. The opportunity I have to create and inspire future leaders in the industry is what drives me.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is watching human beings grow from lower-level employees to life-changing leaders. I do business coaching and consulting now for other home service business leaders around the country, and I have the opportunity to make an impact every single day of my life. And that is by far what I am most proud of. My podcast - Never Stop Building, is also a very proud accomplishment of mine to continue to spread the message of leadership.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Being willing to evolve in every area of your life. It is so easy to get wrapped up in the business as a new business owner that we start to believe the lie that the business must take precedence over our families and ourselves. It is not true. There will always be seasons where things will be unbalanced, but business owners who stay successful long-term are the ones who can learn to prioritize and be accountable to not just their businesses but the rest of their responsibilities as well.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Go all in with zero doubt. The biggest killer of self-belief and success is doubt. You have to believe that you CAN do it no matter what.
- Imposters do not suffer from imposter syndrome. If you are feeling some imposter syndrome - good - it means you are growing.
- Cash flow is more important than almost anything else in finance. Develop and uphold a solid cash flow plan and procedure so you can sleep at night.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.otlkitchenandbath.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samkaufmanofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samkaufmanofficial/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samkaufmanofficial/
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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