Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in career development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ray Bernoties, a Management Consultant of Ray Bernoties - Management Consulting, located in Victoria, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I provide consulting services. To date, I have been focused on public service. My customers tend to be various levels of government or other public service organizations such as police departments. I am also coaching individuals to help them reach their career/work-related goals.
Tell us about yourself
I retired as a Police Chief after having worked for about 31 years. Within a few months, I realized that, while enjoying the freedom and ability to pursue personal goals, I missed aspects of working. I wanted to return to work but on more flexible terms that allowed me to travel, focus on health, spend more time with family, and not be required to work Monday to Friday. Consulting is a perfect fit.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I just started my business a few months ago, and I would say that I'm most proud of how quickly it is growing and how exciting it has been. In addition to my pre-existing network, I have 'cold called' a couple of larger firms, and that has gone very well. All it took was the initiative to call, and I'm now meeting wonderful people and growing my business for my executive coaching business line, which has come exclusively from my pre-existing Twitter account.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
A career in public service meant that I rarely needed to 'sell myself.' In business, you do need to sell yourself as people have options, and they need to know why they should choose you. I'm fortunate that I had a pre-existing network, but I have still had moments that felt a bit new or awkward. I decided to just have fun with it and go for it!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
I would suggest that they have to stay positive. Expect setbacks and rejection, so when it happens, it just feels like part of the process and doesn't discourage you. When meeting with others, always maintain a positive attitude. People want to work with positive people. I would suggest keeping an open mind and staying humble. There are many people out there who have succeeded in business. Ask them for advice, truly listen and be willing to adjust your business to meet the needs of clients. It may morph into something entirely different than you had imagined, but that's okay. Amazon started as a bookstore. Lastly, I would encourage people to just go for it. Business leaders respect a person who is trying to hustle.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.raybernoties.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ray_oak
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.