Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Zachary Neeley. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Zachary, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Being a young business owner is very difficult, especially because you lack the substantial work and life experience that older entrepreneurs have. I think what has validated my sense of belonging in the tutoring industry as a business owner is the feedback I get from my students–high test scores, As in their classes, catching onto a difficult concept. I absolutely enjoy what I do, and I know that as long as I rely on my skills and the experience that I do have, I know that I can overcome any challenge that I face as a business owner!
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m the director of Atlas Tutoring, a small tutoring business here in Sugar Land, TX. We’ve been up and running for over a year and a half, helping students from elementary all the way through college with subjects like English, math, science, and test prep.
We’re passionate about helping students succeed, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see them gain confidence and reach their academic goals! We’re proud to have served students not just in Sugar Land, but across the country!
What makes us special is that we offer flexible scheduling, including late-night sessions for busy students. We also understand the importance of affordability, so we keep our pricing student-friendly. Lastly, our customer service is our top priority, and we ensure that all of our students’ needs and expectations are met.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
As a business owner, I would say that self-confidence is the most important soft skill that you can have. Trusting that you hire the right staff, that you know what you’re doing, and that you have the requisite experience to do your job to your customers’ satisfaction. Running a business is not for the faint of heart, and there are so many challenges that you encounter along the way. However, as long as you know that what you’re doing is what you’re supposed to be doing, everything else falls into place!
The second most important skill to have is customer service. No one likes a cranky, stiff, uptight business owner! It costs absolutely nothing to be cordial and friendly with customers, whether they’re long-term or prospects.
The third most important skill to have is communication. Learning how to effectively communicate with staff, contractors, and clients is important in ensuring an orderly business operation. Miscommunication can cause unnecessary hiccups and mishaps at best, and at worst, loss of clients and staff.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
My mom! She has been in business for herself for over 15 years. She has taught and continues to teach me how to effectively manage certain parts of my business. Without her support, I don’t think I would be where I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.atlastutoring.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090206264626
- Other: Email: [email protected]
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
