Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Bill Benjamin, Partner at Institute for Health and Human Potential, located in Chicago, IL, USA.

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

We provide culture, leadership, and emotional intelligence training to organizations that want to get to the next level of performance. Our clients include Allstate, Marriott, the Federal Reserve Bank, the U.S. Marines, NASA, United Airlines, and many more.

Tell us about yourself

I have degrees in mathematics and computer science. I worked at a computer software company and was a successful individual contributor. I got promoted to be a manager, and I struggled to lead people effectively. I got to attend the training that IHHP delivers, and it made a huge difference for me. After a number of years of putting the insights and strategies from our training into practice, I decided to join IHHP as an owner and speaker. I am motivated every day to help people learn the lessons I learned that help them be their best.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I am most proud of the great people who work for IHHP and bring their best every day to help grow our business. We were named one of Profit Magazine's Top 100 companies and wrote the New York Times bestselling book, Performing Under Pressure.

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

Having to have tough conversations and making difficult decisions. We call these "Last 8%" moments, and they are the most difficult things people need to do. Fortunately, we provide training in how to approach these moments with connection and courage!

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

  1. You have to know what value you offer to your clients, and you can't be shy about "selling" that. Too many people don't like to "promote" themselves, but you have to if you are going to grow a business.
  2. If you are leading/managing people, get training. I wasn't given any when I was promoted, and I struggled. Leading people is a skill that can be learned.
  3. Like anything, there are going to be good days and bad days. Failures and successes. Be prepared not to let the low periods or failures get you down. We all know the stories of people who hit setbacks (Oprah. Steve Jobs, etc.) yet stayed resilient.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." - Wayne Gretzky.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.ihhp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IHHPGlobal/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ihhpglobal/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/_bill_benjamin
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-benjamin-12b671/

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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