Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in career development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with John Williams, Founder and President of Devicore, located in West Chester, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a career development firm working with professionals seeking to change careers. We work with them to enhance their ability to articulate their inherited transferable skills from one field to another.
Tell us about yourself
Ever since I was a kid, I've wanted to work in sports broadcasting. When I finally got my first opportunity in the field, I realized that it was nothing like I thought it would be, and I didn't want to stick around, but I also didn't know how to make that career transition. That's why I am passionate about helping people where I was once, so they don't feel stuck in a field they don't enjoy.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We've worked with thousands of people to re-write their resumes, optimize their LinkedIn profiles, and brush up on some of the soft skills necessary to land their next job. Just receiving feedback from our customers is the greatest joy I get from this.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
We're a small business and are in an industry with bigger companies who are perceived to be better because they have more money and funding. The truth is, some of those big companies, one in particular, offer similar services but don't come close to the quality of our work. So navigating around that with fewer resources is the biggest challenge for sure.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't start a company in an industry you don't love or do something you don't like. Money is important, but if you're not motivated by your surroundings, it'll be tough to get anything done.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help. A lot of work and hours go into starting a business, and while that is always going to be the case, a good business owner will be willing to delegate some things and let others take stuff off your plate. It's scary to be hands-off sometimes, but you'll never grow your business if you do everything yourself.
- Know your customer. Don't assume you know your customer. Researching what they want/need and what language they use to describe these things is critical in your marketing efforts.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.devicore.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DevicoreLLC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/devicorellc/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/devicore/
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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