Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Randall Craig, CEO of Pinetree Advisors, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.

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

I help leaders solve their problems with marketing, technology, and scaling their businesses. Most of my clients are in the knowledge or service industries, from start-ups that have begun to grow to the largest firms in the world. I have also written eight books and speak at conferences and to leaders around the globe about scaling their businesses.

Tell us about yourself

As a consultant, I have had the opportunity to work with hundreds of businesses. I began synthesizing these ideas into frameworks, which became books. These books led to becoming a professional speaker, which then led to more consulting and business coaching. I love seeing the light bulb go on when I work with a leader or present to a group.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Building and exiting several businesses and being on the leading edge of marketing throughout my career: from service-based marketing to the internet, social media, content marketing, and more. And I'm particularly proud of being recognized as a "Fellow" Certified Management Consultant and also being inducted into the Speaking Hall of Fame. My success has allowed me and my family to have a beautiful and fulfilling life.

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

Realizing that all of my employees are counting on me for their livelihood, and all of my clients are counting on us to solve some of their toughest problems. Failure is not an option.

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

  1. Learn from others. I've written over 600 articles available at no cost on my website that can help every entrepreneur. And for those who are looking at hiring a business coach, I offer a no-cost one-hour "Ask Me Anything" session. Take advantage of others' knowledge whenever you can, especially when it is free.
  2. Systems make it possible, but people make it happen. Get the best people on your team, even better than you. And say goodbye to those who are not up to your standards.
  3. Systems DO make it possible, so make sure that you document your processes and then use technology to automate as much as possible: accounting, marketing automation, CRM, and so on.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

The challenge that most entrepreneurs have is NOT that they don't know all the answers; it's just that they don't know the right questions to ask. This is the "unknown unknowns" problem. Learning from others is the fastest shortcut to success.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.randallcraig.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RandallCraig
Twitter: https://twitter.com/randallcraig
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randallcraig/

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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