This entry is long overdue, but I recently came across my notes from the last YPNOVA Learn From a Leader session. Seeing how much great info there was I thought I would share it here. Learn From a Leader is a not-so- regular event of the Young Professionals of Northern Virginia, wherein we eat lunch in the office of a local business leader and hear "their story." For this particular session we were in the offices of V2 Systems, Inc., talking to founder Guy Hinkler.
V2 Systems, Inc. is a local IT consulting firm , founded in 1990 when Guy Hinkler was laid off. He had been working for a local computer store. Though he was no longer there, clients continued to call and ask for him. As a result, Guy thought he would try his hand as an independent contractor. His first account was the City of Manassas! Business was so good (it doubled every year for the next five years) that he had to start hiring and subbing out work just so that he could oversee jobs, ensuring that the same level of quality would remain. Along the way he had to let go of a business partner who was getting him in trouble, but all in all he says that he has been realy blessed with a lot of good luck and great experiences.
For those who would seek to go out on their own, these are Guy Hinkler's tips for success:
- Find a mentor.
- If people are not performing, don't be afraid to let them go. This go for clients as well as employees!
- Know your strengths
- Relationships make things happen-Network!
- Work for a good cause; not your bottom line. People will notice your work ethic.
- Cross-Sell: be on the lookout for mutually beneficial solutions when working with your clients
- Know who the decision-maker is and what makes them happy!
- Get really active in the Chamber- Guy was on the Board of Directors for nine years
Be sure to attend the next YP Mixer scheduled for November 17th at Uno's Chicago Grill. Click HERE for all the details!