Entrepreneurs have Conviction

Last night I was invited to speak in front of the Business Planning group at the San Francisco RenCenter.  This place holds a special place in my heart because 14 years ago I brought an idea and watched it blossom into my company, TeleSmart. It is led by the very inspiring Paul Terry who has the gift of taking eager potential entreprenuers and shaping them into smart business professionals. He is one of my mentors.

I looked across the room and saw the most diverse group of business owners all working at their business plan or their roadmap to success. I always like the business ideas that float around in this space such as a Pet Retail Store, Bakery, High Fashion Clothing Store, Karaoke Bar, On-line Magazine for Alzheimers and a Life Coach.

So the interview started and Paul shot some great questions my way at the end, I shared some advise for all entrepreneurs out there:

Stay true to your niche- you will gain respect in your industry as an expert.

Listen to your customers and what the market is saying and learn to react quickly

Always find a way to say you can do something

Be fearless, open, agile, forgiving and flexible

Keep your spirit alive because you will attract business just because of your excitement

Create strategic partnerships

Hire consultants and coaches to bring you up to speed instead of spending days in training

Remember the sign of a true entrepreneur is having people tell you “it won’t work” or “that’s not a good idea” and you get to respond with, “watch. this.”

Thanks Paul for inviting me and best of luck Business Planning Class of 2007