Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jeff Mannion, Founder of Leaders LEAP, LLC, located in Melbourne, FL, USA.

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

I am a Career Ownership Coach, and the clients I work with are usually in some type of career transition for a variety of reasons, such as layoffs, lack of career progression, battered career syndrome, and more.

Tell us about yourself

In my past life as a multi-unit restaurant operator, I was always told by my teams that I had a servant-leader mentality very much. I knew that by going into my own business, there had to be a mission. Now when I get up every morning, my mindset is all about who I can help and simply be just a ripple in the pond of their life.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment happens daily, and that is helping others explore career options that defy traditional beliefs related to 'climbing the corporate W2 ladder.'

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

One of the biggest hurdles to overcome in my business was the ability to give up all control. The cadence and pace of every client are up to them, and I simply help act as the guide or sherpa on their journey.

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

That's a very easy question to answer:

  1. Don't try to find a business or concept that is solely driven by your passion because the chance of failure is exponentially higher. Instead, find something that has a mission that will get you out of bed every single day with a smile on your face. Your passion project can be something you do with the excess income you will make from your business.
  2. Please, please, please ensure that you have enough working capital to keep the business on track, as well as to pay yourself a salary for at least the first year as it ramps up.
  3. You must be brutally honest with yourself about being self-motivated and being a self-starter. Some people are much better suited to have a strong leader provide them with direction versus motivating themselves.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I wish I had explored self-sufficiency and business ownership many years ago. While the timing may not have been right back then, at least I would have had the knowledge that there were options available to me.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://jmannion.esourcecoach.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083673871545
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmanniontes/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreymannion/

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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