On Feb 28th the Daviess County CEO Cohort had a session with Jared Miller, founder of Selling Table, sharing his inspiring and winding journey from high school to entrepreneurship, offering valuable life lessons to the aspiring business owners.
Jared's story unfolds like a windy, curvy, up-and-down path. From his time as a high school athlete to a brief stint in college and Christian ministry, he found his way to Daviess County. Initially immersed in the automotive repair business, he later explored investments and real estate, worked as a mortgage lender for a local bank, and eventually transitioned into a regional role within the banking sector.
The entrepreneurial spark ignited when Jared ventured into a business that assists For Sale By Owner clients, marking the beginning of Selling Table in January 2022. His journey emphasized the significance of being adaptable and seizing opportunities, showcasing the unpredictable yet rewarding nature of entrepreneurial pursuits.
When asked about his hiring criteria, Jared pinpointed a crucial factor: personality. The emphasis on soft skills, such as being caring, compassionate, and easy to talk to, underscored the importance of interpersonal dynamics in the business world. This insight resonated with the CEO Cohort, emphasizing the value of developing these skills in their entrepreneurial journey.
Jared candidly shared his experiences with advertising, noting that while he initially invested in various platforms such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, radio ads, and LinkedIn, the most effective form turned out to be the power of word of mouth. This revelation reinforced the organic and impactful nature of personal recommendations in building a business.
Acknowledging the challenges of competing with friends in the real estate sector, Jared provided practical advice on writing business plans: be flexible, super conservative, and ensure ample start-up capital. As he explained the complexities of the closing process and purchase agreements, the cohort gained valuable insights into the intricacies of his industry.
Jared's visit left a lasting impression, offering not just a glimpse into the entrepreneurial world but also imparting practical advice and encouragement. The Daviess County CEO Cohort extends sincere gratitude to Jared for sharing his experiences and contributing to their entrepreneurial education.