Very Short Interview No. 1

This week I decided to interview the president of ATL Information Systems, Tom Ownby. 

Mr. Ownby is owner in a partnership with two other individuals. Their company has been very successful and they have increased revenue ten times over in the last three years of business. ATL is a software/parts creator and distributor for companies like OCM.

1. "What does it mean to you to be an entrepreneur?"

"Freedom, Time and Flexibility. Entrepreneurship gives you something tangible. You've created this business. It also includes partnerships and being able to take advantage of different perspectives. It also gives you the opportunity to make more money." 

2. "What was the biggest lesson to you as an entrepreneur in all this?"

Patience and Perseverance. Just because you fail at some things doesn't mean your business has to fail. If your business does fail, you try again. You're going to fail at some point. Make sure you're able to adapt and that you have flexibility with what's happening in your business. In hind site, I also would've tried to start the business on my own. It can be difficult incorporating partners, ideas and opinions when everyone has a vision"

3. "What is the greatest part about being an entrepreneur?"

"Achievement. To know you've started something from nothing and not only made it successful but that it's had an impact is great. You may not be able to achieve that same level of success in the corporate world. We've increased our revenue 10 times over by managing for efficiency and quality control. Our business does not have a lot of over head, so it makes it easier for us to profit. Whatever you do, don't give up. It's worth it."

I truly enjoyed Mr. Ownby's perspective on being an entrepreneur. 

I think, overall, I'm surprised to hear how happy his in with his decisions and what being an entrepreneur has meant to him. 

While this path seems difficult, it also seems to have provided a great level of accomplishment and satisfaction. While money is definitely a goal, I think we all would love to know our work has impacted the world in a positive way.