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JohnHoward
QuickApply##comma## Inc. | jhoward@quickapply.com | President | 10/09/2002 | Small Business Owner
John Howard is the President of QuickApply##comma## Inc.##comma## a California company that provides leads to Mortgage companies and banks.
What kind of training or education did you acquire before your venture?
I am a college graduate who has always been entreprenuerial. I am now the sole entreprenuer of QuickApply which is an internet mortgage lead generation company. This was a somewhat risky venture for me in that I had no mortgage experience. I had alot of financial services experience##comma## but wanted to act on getting on the internet.
What services or products does your organization offer?
We provide highly qualified leads to Mortgage companies and banks. We are located in Santa Monica##comma## Ca.
What type of business or organization do you operate?
Sub S corporation##comma## for tax purposes.
How many employees do you currently have?
4 people
How did you originally discover the idea for your organization?
It was an idea in my head refined by many emails and much information gathering
How did you originally fund your organization?
Personal funds and loans.
Are you the founder of your organization?
Yes
Do you believe there is any distinct culture within your organization? If so, please describe it.
Not necessarily. We are still early in the blossoming stages that this is not evident yet.
What obstacles or challenges have you faced in your organization?
Understanding how to get exposure to these mortgage companies and lenders. We are still experiencing this challenge##comma## but it is not a huge universe so sticking around helps.
Did you accept any advice along the way? Do you believe new organizations should be open to such advice?
Good advice is never overstated. If yo can get good##comma## niche oriented##comma## specific advice##comma## it is priceless.
Did you receive any help along the way from other businesses or organizations? If so, how and from whom?
Yes. Other lead generation companies that are in the same field but more established have helped.
What have been the keys to success in your business? What do you believe are the keys to success?
Stick-to-it-ness and good luck.
What kind of relationship do you establish with your customers or clients?
Excellent communication and outstanding account management.
What types of marketing do you employ?
all internet based marketing. Search enging marketing done well for us.
Do you employ any web or online marketing?
Note: Question not yet added at time of interview.
What role does trust play in business or in your organization?
Yes. Assuming people will look out for you and treat you well. You have to cover yourself.
Did you struggle with starting your own organization or venture? Why did you decide to begin on your own?
Note: Question not yet added at time of interview.
What books or resources would you recommend for individuals starting off now?
The power of now. Rich Dad##comma## Poor Dad.
Do you notice any trends in the marketplace? If so, what are they?
Note: Question not yet added at time of interview.
Do you believe networking and contacts are important? If so, how?
Very important. Just make sure these contacts have direct experience in your related field.
What do you think about contracts and other legal obligations? Are they important in your business?
Note: Question not yet added at time of interview.
If there is one thing that would sum up your advice to new entrepreneurs, what would it be?
Have enthusiam.
What, if any, final advice do you have for new entrepreneurs?
Go for it!
