Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in career development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jeff Perry, founder of More Than Engineering, located in Pullman, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a leadership and career expert that helps engineers and technology professionals upgrade their careers 40% faster and get pay increases of 20%+ while aligning with their long-term goals. I also do custom training and coaching for engineering leaders and businesses that want to level up the humanity and productivity of their engineering teams.
Tell us about yourself
As a long-time engineering leader in multiple industries (mechanical, software, manufacturing, sustainability), I noticed that my greatest and most joyful moments came through supporting people in achieving their goals.
Eventually, I had opportunities to do training and coaching internal to my organization and LOVED it! Those were the days I most looked forward to. So I like to say I have moved from developing products to developing people. It's a true honor to have a "front-row seat" to the success of my amazing clients.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Some of the most vulnerable people in our engineering and technology communities are those on international visas. There have been multiple situations where I've been able to support people in getting new career opportunities, so they didn't have to go back to their home countries. The joy on their faces as they can continue their career dreams is amazing.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Learning that sales is an act of service and love. As I started my work, I just wanted to do the work. The idea of "sales" felt slimy and unnatural to me. I've had to shift my thinking to believing and seeing the reality that people are 100% better off by investing in themselves by working with me than if they take a different route. By doing that, I truly believe that I am doing the right thing for them, not just for me when I make a sale. I needed to sell myself first!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Get help. Don't try to do it alone. Connect with a community, coach, or training program that helps guide you in your journey.
- Get clear on WHY you are doing it. Making money is great. You should do that, or your business will die, but what is the goal behind the goal?
- Don't try to be everything to everyone. Find your focus and do great work in that space!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://morethaneng.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffcperry/
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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