Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dean Karrel, Founder of The Skyridge Group, located in River Vale, NJ, USA.

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

I am a career development advisor and sales trainer working with those in the early to mid-stages of their careers, assisting them in enhancing their business skills, maximizing their opportunities, and building self-confidence. As a LinkedIn Learning instructor, I also train those who wish to improve and develop their sales skills.

Tell us about yourself

I am a believer that by mastering the basic skills of business, including planning and preparation, a strong work ethic, and caring for others, we can differentiate ourselves from our peers and succeed in both our business and personal lives. Those skills, combined with enhancing a colleague's confidence to enable them to fully maximize their potential, are things he's found most rewarding as a coach and a leader.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Starting a new business does not happen overnight, yet there does come the point that hopefully, we all encounter when you become established, word of mouth spreads of your work, and the feedback you hear is positive. For me, hearing from sales professionals from around the world who have taken my courses is so rewarding.

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

Many people start new businesses because they are entrepreneurs at heart and love that independence. With more than 30 years of working in the corporate world and loving that comradery with other colleagues, working on my own was an adjustment.

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

  1. There will be good days and days when you may doubt the path you have taken. Be resilient and believe in your mission.
  2. Seek guidance from a core group of business connections who will encourage you but be direct with their guidance.
  3. Be clear in knowing your target audience. Be willing to pivot if need be.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Know your priorities, believe in your abilities, don't be shy about asking for help, focus on what really matters and never forget that family comes first.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://theskyridgegroup.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DeanKarrel

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/deankarrel/
https://www.linkedin.com/learning/instructors/dean-karrel

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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