Very Short Interview, Part 2

From where you stand now, what is your impression of that initial interview?
I still feel really good about this interview. Tom built a well respected company from the group up and it's something he's really proud of. He was a little apprehensive about my initial interview so I think the entry level questions were appropriate without being too aggressive.


I was not able to record due to the fact that Tom's business is located on the west coast. He is in the process of transitioning the business to the east coast of FL but he still travels back and fourth to complete his business but he was kind enough to complete his interview via e-mail.


Second, visit the entrepreneur again. The three questions you ask this time are entirely up to you.
1. How has the business changed since we spoke last?
Tom explained that he's grown the business and moved it's base to the east coast. They've changed ownership which has affected his portion. He is still a partner in this but it's limited to two instead of the three which leaves more responsibility financial, operationally, and ethically. Overall, he's still very happy with the transitions the business has made.


2. In hindsight, what would you do differently?
"I would start the company on my own and exclude the partnership. It can be difficult incorporating so many different personalities and personal endeavors. I would be able to focus on my individual goals."


3. What's your long term goal for the business?
Tom explained that this is something he wanted to do well in. He wanted to be able to retire to a comfortable life while knowing that he's built something that'll be around. Tom's company is still making over a million dollars a year in revenue and growing. He's still very much enjoying what he does and actually runs a few smaller companies as well.


Third, after the interview, try to gather some sense of how far you have come in this class. In your post, discuss your comfort level in talking about entrepreneurship in this interview now, compared to three months ago. Did the entrepreneur convey a sense that they thought you had progressed in your journey?
Before this course started, starting my own business was something my husband and I considered. To be honest, consideration is as far as we've ever gotten. This course has truly given me a lot to think about. I've gotten a lot of really good feedback and I think the biggest take away was seeing all the great ideas my fellow students have. It reminds me of all the entrepreneurs out there looking to chase a dream, just like me and just how competitive the business world is. I've come to appreciate just how valuable another person's feedback is. Even some of my closest friends were able to provide insight I had never thought of. I've never looked at them as resources before but I've certainly changed my view.