We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jimmy Johnson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jimmy, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
It was in 1999- while employed at the city’s electric department, doing customer service. Office buildings have those huge windows- my little cubicle desk sat right next to one. Everyday, I would just sit and stare out- thinking, “I need to be out there! I need to be free! I need to be more involved in the city- moving around, shaking- making things happen!” I felt I was just wasting time sitting cooped up at a dead end job. That’s when I knew- I had found my purpose. I knew I would rather be working for myself- as an entrepreneur, than be wasting time answering customers calls all day helping them with their electric bills.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a serial entrepreneur, business consultant, published author and motivational speaker. I was one of a handful of semi-pro basketball players privileged to play in the first inaugural seasons of the NBA D-League (now G-League) in 1997. I moved to Houston in 2005, obtained my Real Estate license to become a Realtor, then completed my college education earning an A.A. in Business Administration from Lone Star College-Tomball in 2009, and a B.B.A. in Marketing from the Davies College of Business at the University of Houston-Downtown in 2013. I’m certified in Entrepreneurship- and for the most part, just spend my time managing my numerous brands.
J Promotions – a full-scale entertainment promotions company. We host upscale themed events, concerts, comedy showcases and exclusive trips. We also offer event planning, artist and business promotions, and have a team of brand ambassadors called the P.G.S. (Priddi Gurl Swag) girls.
GF Marketing Group – a marketing firm that offers a full menu of services. We provide marketing and business consultation that is industry specific via both traditional and digital mediums. Our specialty is reaching targeted audiences and helping our clients to achieve maximum customer retention.
Innovative Segue – a non-profit organization that serves as a gateway for bridging the gap between socioeconomic development and disadvantaged communities. Our mission is to provide education, skill-set training, therapy and character development through programs such as interactive initiatives, enrichment camps, health and wellness and mentorship.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Consistency, determination and to NEVER quit!! Success isn’t going to be easy- use every experience as a new opportunity to learn and grow. Learn how to deal with adversity- it’s going to come, and it will challenge you, learn how to overcome it and to keep going. Your plans aren’t always going to go as expected- it’s a part of the journey, that’s what makes it your testimony. Live and learn, make adjustments, and my favorite phrase, “Keep it moving!”. For me, entrepreneurship wasn’t easy. I’ve been blessed to build three brands at the same time. Adversity, yes! Hardships, yes! Trying times, most definitely! But, I never gave up- I sacrificed a lot to be where I am.
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
My number one obstacle and/or challenge has been scaling a few of my brands. I would like to shift into the corporate arena. Working with aspiring entrepreneurs and/or small businesses is great- and I love helping clients to make their dreams become a reality. But, i’m also interested in securing high-profile clientele. The barrier to entry serves to be difficult when encroaching on top-tier markets- but my brands have a credible footprint, we’re ready for the growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gf-marketinggroup.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/gf_marketinggroup
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/GFMKTGP
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/gf-marketing-group
- Twitter: twitter.com/gf_mktgp
Image Credits
GF Marketing Group
