This passed year, my dad started his own business called Southern Heritage Irrigation. Previously he worked as a salesman for Massey and learned how to install sprinkler systems and fix irrigation problems, which inspired him to go out on his own. The friends he made there have passed him business, along with other irrigation companies in the area who cannot perform the specialized jobs my dad can. He rewards those who give him customers with gift cards, the amount depending on how big of a sale he made. Another strategy of his is "free inspections," in which he or one of his employees will do an irrigation inspection free of charge to see what the problem is. 95% of the time this leads to a sale. I'm proud of my dad for taking a risk to start a business of his own. I can definitely tell he is enjoying life much more working on his own time and overcoming new challenges than he was when he was in pharmaceutical sales. Usually when I go home he will pay me to shadow him for the day where I have learned how to work/install sprinkler timers and where to dig up necessary hoses. It is also interesting hearing his plans for the company's future and how he plans on obtaining more business and growing.
I am enrolled in this course because part of me wants more than anything to be an entrepreneur, but the other part is scared. I am also enrolled in this course because Shark Tank, my dad, and uncle inspire me to be an entrepreneur. My uncle failed miserably with his new restaurant, but got back up on his feet and is now thriving in the food truck business. Most entrepreneurs fail, however success will make it all worth it, and what I take from this course can only improve my entrepreneur mindset.
Lauren,
ReplyDeleteThat sounds awesome! A part of me also wants to be an entrepreneur because of how exciting and interesting it seems. I am always so amazed when people take risks cause it really shows how experimental and how important their mindset really is. Your dad must be proud that his daughter wants to follow in his foot steps and be so daring. Your post made me realize why it is important to follow you dreams and make sure we are doing it all for the right reasons!
Nick
Your story is a lot like mine. Both my parents were working jobs where they learned a lot, but it didn't seem like it was their passion. They have since moved into the restaurant business and have owned their own place for the last 5 years and couldn't be happier! I think it is great you want to follow in your father's and your uncle's footsteps. It is really inspiring seeing those closest to you succeed. Hope you get everything you need out of this class!
ReplyDeleteIn case you are interested, here is a link to my story if you want to check it out too!
http://cthomasuf.blogspot.com/2016/01/my-entrepreneurship-story.html