Nicholas J Hohman of Mission Critical Communications Review .
Tell us about yourself?
I’m an avid writer and have been frequently published on numerous industry-specific websites. My passion for writing is what lead me to start mission-critical communications review.
Before starting this new venture I had fifteen years of experience in the critical communications industry primarily in a sales and marketing capacity working closely with public safety personnel. During my free time, I enjoy playing cards, traveling, and spending time with my family.
What do you think is the single biggest misconception people have when it comes to startups?
I would say the biggest misconception people have is the ability to secure funding for a startup. They have the notion banks are willing to lend you money without collateral. In being an entrepreneur you need to be prepared to put in all on the line. Funding is tough to come by and for us this was the most difficult aspect of getting started.
If you could go back in time to any moment from your journey, and give yourself one tip, what would it be?
I would focus on elements of your business that drive revenue. From my experience it is very easy to get caught up analyzing vanity metrics i.e. website impressions, number of clicks, traffic, etc. You need to be laser focused on driving revenues and reducing expenses that are not having a positive impact on your numbers. I have been at fault for wasting countless hours analyzing the wrong data. Time if you most valuable asset since you can never get it back stay focused on the big picture revenue, expenses, net income.
What makes you stand out as an entrepreneur?
My ability to hire the right people. I realized very early on that your business success depends on the team you create. From my experience your better off letting someone go if you determine they are not the right fit. Choose your colleagues wisely and everything else will fall in to place.
What are some of the best working habits you’ve gained over the past couple of years?
I would say being able to delegate tasks for projects with the use of technology that has become available. You can find quality freelances now days on upwork and other websites that can help you meet deadlines for your tactical business goals.
Give us a bit of an insight into the influences behind the company?
Our vision at Mission Critical Communications Review is to provide industry partners a platform to promote their business, while at the time being able to connect with other industry partners.
Where do you see your business in five years?
We have ambitions of being the community of choice within communications technology industry. Goals include but are not limited to reaching five thousand daily users, having over ten thousand businesses in our directory, and provided the latest and greatest information to the critical communications industry.
What do you think the biggest challenge will be for you in getting there?
I think two things will be challenging in reaching our five year goals. First as I mentioned before securing funding will be difficult. Secondly brand awareness will be difficult since customers will needed to be educated in detail on our product to fully understand the service we provide for them.
Talk to us about your biggest success story so far?
Our biggest success to date has been our partnerships with our growing customer base including but limited to well know companies like Assured Wireless, Surecall, and Waveband Communications.
How do clients and customers find you? Are you much of a salesperson for yourself?
We have a sales team, and recent coverage like our crunch base profile have raised visibility of the company.
What one tip would you give to fellow startup founders?
The technology industry is always changing be sure you pivot quickly to changes as they occur or you will be left behind.
And finally, what do you hope the future brings both you personally, and your business?
For me personally I hope our success will bring my employees the satisfaction that comes with helping other businesses succeed.
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