There are many things that drive an ambitious business owner to their successes. Whether that’s a legendary idol, or a small bit of advice their grandmother gave them when they were young, all business owners are powered by their own individual goals and inspirations.
We took a few minutes out of the co-founder and owner of Walker Hill’s busy day, Nick Hill, to see what motived him to get into business.
What was your first ever job?
When I was 14, I worked as a kitchen hand in a Chinese restaurant. It was very stressful and busy, but they treated me well (free Chinese food every night I went home!). That being said, I ended up quitting because I missed my friends, and I didn’t care too much about making money … yet!
Did you try out other career paths prior to owning your own business?
I’ve tried quite a few different jobs during my time so let’s see if I can remember them all. I was a kitchen hand, delivery driver, landscaper, forklift driver, personal trainer, legal administrator … I think that’s all of them?
When did you first decide you would like to start your own business?
Back when I was a personal trainer, I got a taste for running my own small business and really loved it.
Have you always been business minded?
No! I have read a lot of articles on successful business owners who started their first business as a kid (like a lemonade stand) or tried making money off of their friends at a young age. That certainly wasn’t me – I was a typical kid and teenager. But then in my early 20s I started to really think about employment vs. becoming business owner.
Who motivates you in the business world?
There are too many names to mention them all. I have met so many inspirational people that I feed from their skills, knowledge and energy. I don’t believe you can truly ever have just one inspiration if you want to succeed and grow.
What are your top 3 tips to running a successful business?
It’s tough to think of only three.
- Get the right mindset;
- Understand your cashflow (and don’t forget to include your taxes!);
- Set a 12-month plan. I’m a short-term kind of guy so I don’t do 5-year plans.
If you could describe up your time as a business owner in one word, what would it be?
Rollercoaster!
