What’s a guiding principle that informs the way you build and run your business?
Going the extra mile. This principle encourages professionals to create work that exceeds expectations. By being relentless about emphasizing quality, I have been able to exponentially improve/accelerate each of my companies’ reputations by ensuring that the team consistently produces high-quality work, both internally and for clients. High-quality products or services not only satisfy customers but also foster customer loyalty, leading to repeat business and referrals. The gifts just keep giving.
What helped you accelerate your growth as a leader / entrepreneur?
One of the things (as crazy as it sounds) that has helped to shape me as a leader and accelerate my growth is when I hit founder burnout. Another is when I hired an executive coach (shout out to Coach Mike)!
What quote or saying has stuck with you?
Just Do It. Simple. Fresh. And I love my kicks. Phil Knight (Nike)
What book do you recommend the most?
"The Hard Thing About Hard Things": Every founder should read it as its the only book I have found that celebrates a walk down “The Dirt” of War time (as opposed to peace time)
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Here’s More, From Other Founders Around the World
What should leaders understand about their own role and responsibility?
Your own time and energy is the most precious resource you have. Use it wisely, and learn what gives you energy, and what saps you. In the early years of building something, you need to throw a huge amount of time at it - and do many things you perhaps don’t like doing. But as you scale, it’s vital to take a step back and build a business that can grow rapidly beyond the time you put into it.
What shift in perspective has allowed you to see things differently?
It may sound simple, but realizing and truly understanding that we are all different and driven by different things has made a significant impact on me. This insight has changed the way I approach relationships and leadership.
What’s a guiding principle that informs the way you build and run your business?
One of our core values at Cozero is radical candor. It is the idea that the willingness to repeatedly enter uncomfortable situations to speak the truth benefits everyone in the long run. We believe that in order to grow and improve as an organization, we need to create an environment where our team is not afraid to challenge processes and decisions. Making this a core value guides us in difficult situations when it’s not clear which road to take.
What's a mistake that you're happy you've made?
I'm happy I chose a highly regulated market, even though it was tough. It taught me a lot about patience, attention to detail, and the importance of doing things right. These lessons have made me better at what I do.