We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sean Ivester. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sean below.
Hi Sean , really appreciate you joining us to talk about a really relevant, albeit unfortunate topic – layoffs and getting fired. Can you talk to us about your experience and how you overcame being let go?
My layoff from Dapper Labs wasn’t just a professional setback; it was a deeply personal challenge that struck at a critical time in my life. With a pregnant wife and a career that had always been a source of pride and identity, the news of being laid off hit me hard. It was a moment that could have spiraled into despair, but instead, it became the impetus for a profound and heartening personal transformation.
In those initial days, the uncertainty was overwhelming. I remember looking at my family, feeling a deep responsibility to provide for them, yet unsure of the path ahead. The comfort of a steady job was gone, replaced by an open-ended question about my future. The realization that my once-passionate career in product marketing had turned into a monotonous grind was sobering. I felt disconnected, not just from my job, but from myself.
It was in this crucible of uncertainty and introspection that I discovered Codie Sanchez’s teachings about buying small businesses. Her perspective was a beacon in the fog, illuminating a path I hadn’t considered. Learning about the relative safety and potential of acquiring an existing business sparked a new fire in me. I dove into this journey with a resolve born from the necessity of change.
The search for the right business was filled with highs and lows, a rollercoaster of emotions. Each potential acquisition, from a badminton club to a glazing company, brought hope, followed by disappointment as deals fell through. But these experiences were not in vain. They were the building blocks of resilience, teaching me invaluable lessons about the world of business ownership.
Then, Pivot Tutors came into my life. It wasn’t just a business opportunity; it felt like a calling. Here was a chance to impact young lives, to shape futures, and to find purpose again. The decision to buy this business was more than a career shift; it was a leap of faith into a future that held promise not just for me, but for my family and the community we were about to serve.
Today, as I reflect on this journey, I am filled with gratitude. The layoff, though a harsh blow at the time, was the catalyst for rediscovering my passion and purpose. Each day at Pivot Tutors, I see the direct impact of my work on bright, eager faces, and I know that this path was meant for me. It’s a constant reminder that sometimes, our greatest challenges lead us to our most fulfilling chapters. This journey has been a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of a new beginning.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about business before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
At Pivot Tutors, we specialize in academic tutoring and test preparation, particularly for the ACT and SAT. Our unique approach lies in our commitment to hiring only the best: tutors with not just degrees in their teaching subjects but also years of experience in tutoring and a warm, engaging personality. This combination ensures our students don’t just learn – they thrive.
What excites me most about Pivot Tutors is the tangible impact we have on our students’ lives. There’s a profound joy and satisfaction in hearing from parents about their child’s transformation – from struggling with grades to excelling academically, or rediscovering a love for learning. These stories are a testament to the difference we make, one student at a time.
As the leading tutoring company in San Diego, we’re thrilled to announce that our growth continues. We’ve recently opened a new office in Rancho Bernardo and have plans to expand further, with potential locations in La Jolla, San Clemente, and Newport Beach. This expansion isn’t just about growing our business; it’s about reaching and positively influencing more students.
Furthermore, we’re excited to introduce group classes this summer for the first time. This initiative is part of our commitment to making high-quality tutoring more accessible and affordable. It’s a new chapter for us at Pivot Tutors, and we’re eager to embark on this journey, continuing to empower students and ignite their passion for learning.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, the three pivotal qualities that stand out are resilience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of customer needs.
Resilience: The path to success is rarely straightforward. My ability to persevere through setbacks, like the layoff, was crucial. For those starting out, I’d emphasize the importance of resilience. It’s about seeing failures not as dead ends, but as stepping stones. Develop this by stepping out of your comfort zone regularly and learning to view challenges as opportunities for growth.
Adaptability: The landscape of business and technology is ever-changing. My transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship required a significant shift in mindset and approach. For anyone at the beginning of their journey, cultivating adaptability is key. This means being open to new ideas, willing to learn continuously, and ready to pivot when necessary. Stay curious and be willing to embrace change.
Understanding Customer Needs: In the tutoring business, success hinges on deeply understanding and meeting the specific needs of students and their parents. This skill, honed over years, was invaluable. For those starting out, I recommend developing a keen sense of empathy and active listening. Engage with your audience, gather feedback, and be genuinely responsive to their needs. This will not only aid in creating a product or service that resonates but will also build lasting relationships with your customers.
My advice is to nurture these qualities and skills through continuous learning, practical experiences, and maintaining a mindset of growth and flexibility. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and every interaction is a chance to understand your customers better. Stay resilient, adaptable, and customer-focused, and you’ll be well on your way to a rewarding journey.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I find myself feeling overwhelmed, my strategy is rooted in optimizing my lifestyle and mindset. I’ve established a routine that sets a foundation for success and mental strength. This routine includes rising early for a gym session at 5 am, followed by a steam and a cold shower. I consciously delay my caffeine intake to later in the morning and maintain a healthy diet. Additionally, I’ve chosen to abstain from alcohol, all part of an effort to give myself the best possible chance to succeed.
I firmly believe in the interconnectedness of physical well-being, mental clarity, and decision-making ability. If I neglect my exercise or diet, it invariably impacts my confidence and judgment. Therefore, maintaining these aspects of my lifestyle is crucial in preventing feelings of being overwhelmed.
However, when overwhelmed feelings do arise, I find that taking action is the most effective response. Rather than dwelling on the multitude of tasks or challenges, I start tackling them one by one. This approach makes problems more manageable, reminding me of the adage, “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.”
Lastly, I cannot understate the importance of a strong support network. In the past, I might have kept my struggles to myself, but I’ve learned the value of open communication. Sharing my feelings with my wife, parents, and friends has been incredibly therapeutic. Their willingness to listen and offer advice is a constant reminder that I’m not alone. This openness even extends to interactions with acquaintances or strangers, who can offer fresh perspectives and support. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and lean on others when things get tough.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.pivtottutors.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pivottutors/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanivester/
