We asked them: What would be your best advice for a young, passionate entrepreneur or would-be entrepreneur?

Joe Ornato – Founder, Ornato Group

Create a backstage process.  Write down all the steps that it will take to give your customer the ultimate experience.  Natural sales people tend to “do” what they “know” intuitively, without getting into a well-defined process.  Building a process allows for: consistency, duplication, organization (of staff), enhanced service, and quick fixes because you can pinpoint errors.

Ricardo Robles – Founder, Capsity Offices

Focus on building strong relationships and learn how to leverage them.  It doesn’t hurt to know angel investors, venture capitalists, attorney’s, insurance brokers/agents, real estate brokers, etc.  It’s also key to look at building relationships with successful entrepreneurs and have them as mentors.

Laurie Hawkins – Focal Point Coaching

Ensure that you have a “flight plan,” and then execute on that plan.  Leverage all the available resources that are available to you – do not let that EGO have a position on your company!

Karl Allen-Muncey, CuteGecko Design Agency

“Eighty percent of success is just showing up.”  Network, get involved, and follow through!  Networking is about creating relationships and a reputation.  Go to community events, and assist other entrepreneurs where possible.  This process will cultivate your reputation and exposure as a valuable provider.

McKenzie Scott, Young Entrepreneur

As a young entrepreneur, nothing comes easy.  In this stage, persistence is key.  Make sure that you are selling your business in a sense that you actually UNDERSTAND what your customer wants.  Cater your product/service to the customer’s specific needs rather than having a one-size fits all solution.

Ben Yoskovitz – CEO/Co-Founder, Standout Jobs

First, have a mentor (or two, or three).  Find someone that has “been there, done that”.  Once you’ve found them, use them.  Second, get involved in the startup community.  There’s no excuse for not getting involved, participating and networking.

Ashley Bodi – Founder, BusinessBeware.Biz

Never give up!  It’s so easy to feel like you’re defeated when trying to start up a business, but don’t let that stop you.  You’re going to have ups and downs but it’s what you do with the things that get thrown at you that makes you a better entrepreneur.

Ben Walton – Founder, Tiger Networks

Systemize everything FIRST.  Run by the numbers, go faster than everyone else and don’t buy “toys” for your business until you sell up!

Janny Ke – Founder, The NOW Organization

Enjoy the adventure with courage, passion, and perseverance.

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