Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Max Allen, founder and owner of Swingworx Golf Performance, located in Carlsbad, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm a golf coach that works with complete beginners all the way to plus-handicap tournament players. I use biomechanics, physics, geometry, and data to help golfers reach their desired goals.
Tell us about yourself
Injuries derailed my college golf career. When I finally returned to competitions, I wasn't the same player. I couldn't do what once came so easily. I had two caring, knowledgeable coaches, and I had a wealth of natural ability. Despite our collaboration, we couldn't get my game back on track. This left me thinking that there was a deep problem with conventional golf instruction. I ditched everything I thought I knew and began examining the game through objective sciences - mainly biomechanics. With the help of other professionals, I found a standard—an ideal way to swing the club. Looking through the lens of biomechanics, I realized all the swings on tour were extremely similar. So, what I do is take clients through a customized curriculum that helps them implement this swing template. Seeing golfers' frustration and need for clear, correct instruction made me want to do this because I was once in that same spot. More than anything, I want to be the best coach for my clients and help them reach their goals.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishments are my clients' accomplishments. Their goals are my goals. I enjoyed success in growing the business, but it doesn't happen unless I'm delivering results for my players. Nearly 100% of my clients reach the goals they tell me about. My players have attained US Am Tour Titles, Senior SCPGA Championships, scholarships, and one-course records. All have lowered their handicaps and have shot new personal bests. Above that, they know how they accomplished those performances and can repeat them because of the education they receive here. I think performance and independence are two best indicators of a teacher's success.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Nothing is guaranteed, any error will cost you, and whatever potential there is, it's on you to make it happen. I'm blessed to have sources of counsel around me when it comes to business decisions. It's easy to get tunnel vision and not consider every angle.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
It depends on the business, but there are a few things that I think apply across the board. First, leave no stone unturned. Whether forming a service or deciding on equipment, it's a healthy habit to consider options. I chose a number of routes I did not favor on first impressions. In hindsight, those decisions have proved some of the most beneficial. Second, maintain at least a few sources of counsel who are outside and familiar with your industry. These professional friendships can lend input that you might not consider. They can inform on marketing, services, and almost any aspect of the business. Third, check pride at the door. Confidence is knowing you can do it right; pride is thinking you can't do it wrong. The ramifications of pride in my profession mean any struggle my client has is their problem. It absolves me from thinking I need to do better. It takes me out of my client's corner and puts me on my own side. This is antithetical to growth.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.swingworxgolf.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/swingworxgolf/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swingworxgolf/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/swingworx-golf-performance/
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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