MY BRILLIANT CAREER | Don’t let the doubters deflate the dream

What do you do?

I’m an entrepreneur focused on helping people and businesses find opportunities. My latest venture is Echo Collective, a local lifestyle app that puts businesses, services and local events in one place. It helps people discover what’s happening around them and gives local businesses a way to be found when customers are ready to buy. We are rolling this out now so that each town in South Africa gets its own Echo platform.

I run other businesses and from time to time will spot an opportunity that resonates and will buy into or invest in a business or a fellow entrepreneur I believe in.

What has made you successful?

I think it’s my willingness to start before I have everything figured out and then keep learning as I go. I’m good at spotting a problem and seeing a business opportunity in it, but an idea means very little until you test it with real customers. I’ve made mistakes, changed direction and started again more than once. Being willing to do that, and to keep selling and doing the work when things get difficult, has made the biggest difference.

What advice do you wish you had had sooner in your career?

I wish someone had told me that you don’t need everyone to believe in your idea before you begin. Take advice from people who have built something themselves, but don’t let every sceptical opinion become a reason to stop. In fact, I would advise that you tell very few people about what you’re doing.

What would you tell a young person wanting to start their own business?

Start with a problem you can solve for someone, even if it seems small. Ask people what they need, offer a solution, and see if they’ll pay for it. You don’t need an office, a fancy logo or a perfect business plan to make your first sale.

Tell me a little about your first and most recent ventures?

My first venture out of the corporate world was a recruitment company aimed at the motor industry. My most recent venture is an app that I’ve started rolling out in KwaZulu-Natal that allows users to access local service providers and events and activities in their town.

What do you look for when recruiting for your team?

I look for enthusiasm, a willingness to learn and someone who isn’t afraid to work hard. You can teach a person the details of a job, but they have to bring the curiosity and the drive. I want people who ask questions, take feedback and keep getting better. That’s the kind of team I want to build.

Business Times