Determination, A Common Trait Amongst Successful Entrepreneurs
Ten Key, Inc. has had the honor of working with many entrepreneurs over the years. We help business owners manage their bookkeeping and accounting needs. Our clients’ success stories have helped us see what qualities appear in entrepreneurs. One such quality won’t be a surprise: determination. We interviewed one of our longtime clients, Roger Magalhaes of Shades IN Place Inc in Franklin, MA, to find out how his own sense of determination (and other entrepreneurial qualities) led to his success.
I always knew I wanted to own my own business, even when I was five years old,” says Roger.
When he came to the United States in 2000, his goals included the following: to learn English, earn money, and go back to Brazil. (Spoiler alert: he got the first two done, but stayed.) He was always on the lookout for an opportunity to own his own business. Intrigued by the window coverings business, Roger set out to learn all he could about it. Soon, he was balancing his full time job as a truck driver with window shades installation projects, working over 100 hours a week. He went out on his own and worked even harder, developing his knowledge through classes and industry certifications.
Build Your Financial Team
Roger also built a network to rely on–what he calls his “power team,” which is made up of professionals like his banker, insurance agent, bookkeeper, etc. (Sound familiar? Read our blog post on building your own financial team!)
I learned to focus on what I do best and have good people on my team to help with the things I struggle with,” Roger told us. “Ten Key, Inc., has been a great part of my team. Stephanie goes above and beyond with advice and planning for my business, she points me in the right direction and keeps me motivated. She’s my biggest cheerleader!”
Keep On Top of Trends
What other qualities have led to Roger’s success?
I’m always looking ahead, he told us. Looking for the next big thing, the next trend in the industry, so we can be ready for it.”
This attention to industry trends has paid off. For example, several years ago, Roger began researching home automation technology. As a result, Shades IN Place offers products that integrate with Amazon’s Alexa and Google Home, just in time for the current surge in home automation.
Collect Positive Customer Reviews
Roger also began gathering online reviews years ago. Now, at a time when many companies are just beginning to collect online reviews, Shades IN Place over 350 positive reviews. This gives potential customers confidence in his company.
Be Determined To Serve Clients
A self-proclaimed workaholic, Roger is always available for his clients, willing to work at their convenience, and find solutions that work for them and their homes. His flexible, pleasant attitude is part of what makes Roger a successful entrepreneur. In his words,
We look forward to many more years of success for Roger and Shades IN Place–let’s get the job done!