Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mary Lombardo, Founder, and CEO of Sales Impact Group, Inc., located in Batavia, IL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Sales Impact Group provides Outsourced Sales Management and Sales Training B2B. The customers we serve vary widely by industry - we work with all businesses because all businesses need sales. We focus our work on clients with revenues of $2M - $5M that are being run by a Founder/Owner and are experiencing revenue plateaus.
Tell us about yourself
I am often asked what skillsets assist others in reaching next-level success patterns. While concrete business strategy and positioning are the backbones of my company, I cannot stress enough the importance of incorporating concrete with the abstract. I can teach people how to write business plans and train them how to sell, but the importance of identifying potential problems before they occur is priceless – literally. This takes "business instinct." Having a keen sense of observation and emotional intelligence compels people to think differently and dramatically changes the outcome of a sale. I can't teach this – this is an inside job. These skillsets and internal characteristics are necessary to navigate uncharted sales waters.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Having the courage to leave a "safe" corporate gig and start my own business was the biggest accomplishment in my career so far.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is being able to manage the uncertainties and highs and lows of client flow and corresponding revenue swings.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Do it! Find your passion; you're going to need it because starting a business is an "inside job." Passion will be the fuel required to continue moving through uncharted waters of every aspect of starting a new business. Mindset is huge! You'll need to keep an open mind, so that be nimble in responding to the ever-changing market and client needs. Come from a place of service because your network will be your "net worth."
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Do it! Go for it! Don't listen to naysayers. Walk steadfastly in the direction of your dreams. There is no such thing as failure. You only fail if you don't try. It's your life - live it!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://salesimpact.group/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SalesImpactGroupSIG/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/salesimpactgrp
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlclombardo/
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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