Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Andy Lewis, Co-Founder of PrivateAuto, Inc., located in Alpine, UT, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
PrivateAuto takes the hassle out of selling and buying vehicles privately! The technology-driven, self-service solution to safely communicate, e-sign state documents, and send or receive payments instantly and securely. PrivateAuto is the new way to buy and sell cars for sale by owner. Verified information and confidential communication give you the freedom to communicate between two parties without giving out personal contact information. Schedule a test drive, negotiate the price, and exchange payments through a secure online system with PrivateAuto.
Tell us about yourself
I'm a true professional computer geek. I've been programming since the 1980s, and I still enjoy it. I worked with Brad Parker, our CEO, on a previous project, and when he reached out to ask me to join this one, I jumped at the opportunity. I not only enjoy technology and still put my hands in the code, but I also enjoy leading a team to build an awesome product that makes a difference for our customers!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have to claim two, actually. The first is the previous company that Brad and I were involved in, built, and sold. But the second is the current work we are doing. We have an incredible team and product, and I can step back and see the lessons learned from the past effectively applied. Ok, not all of them, but a satisfying number of them.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest thing is the occasional staffing decision that you have to make but don't want to make. As a leader, I try hard to build people up and leave them in better shape than I found them. When I have to make a decision that I know will be hard to swallow or even crushing, I really feel the weight of it. But if you can't make those decisions when you need to, then you have an even bigger problem.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Believe in what you are doing. If you don't, others won't either.
- Focus on your strengths, and lean on others where you are weak. You can't do it all.
- Watch your commitments. Don't spread yourself too thin on any front. Don't spend more than you need to. Don't spread your product or service too broadly when you start. Focus.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://privateauto.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/privateauto
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/privateauto/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/_PrivateAuto
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/privateauto/
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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