Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Irma Parone, CEO of Parone Group, located in Coral Springs, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Parone Group works with executives and their teams to create organizational effectiveness.
Tell us about yourself
I was a senior vice president in the service industry for over 20 years when my mother was diagnosed with dementia. She lived in the Pittsburgh area, and I was in the Miami area. When I moved her down ( under 3 miles from me), I could visit with her every day I was home, but I traveled so much, so she was confused. It became so difficult for her that I called my boss one day and said, "I will give you any notice you need, but I need to go." Two months later, I was "retired." I spent the last three years of my mother's life with her while building my business. The best move I ever made. It was scary, but it all worked out beautifully. I absolutely love what I do, and what motivates me is working with people who put in the work and make our ideas live!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is my book. I was fortunate to work with some amazing people who taught me so much that I was extremely successful. My success was understanding how to look at all sides of an issue when making decisions. I articulated this model in my book, WINX - The Problem-Solving Model to Win Exponentially with Customers, Employees & Your Bottom Line. This book can help more people globally than I could ever do alone.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I was in the corporate world for most of my professional career. When I started my own company, I realized that the little (big) things that make an organization run, like websites, marketing, legal support, human resources, etc., were not at my fingertips anymore. I had to develop my team to pull it all together while focusing on what I do best.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Focus on what you want, exactly. That is first. Many people need clarification. Once you get there, identify where you are breaking down each business element—finances, processes, staffing, etc. And then develop a path to get there!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://paronegroup.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paronegroup/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irmaparone/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/paronegroup
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paronegroup/
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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