Startup Corner: Dan Shaffer, Be Successful LLC

Minimally viable product …
I am a speaker and coach committed to helping people reach new levels of success through practical personal development. I speak and coach primarily on emotional intelligence, execution and strategies for success. I work with many top 50 banks and wealth advisory firms across the country.

Problem solving …
Every person on the face of the earth has blind spots and areas they can improve. Finding a coach or mentor to help with those blind spots is key because if most people could fix them on their own, they already would have. Coaching helps people grow into better leaders, managers, employees, spouses, etc.

Seed money …
Self-funded.

Hurdles overcome …
Deciding to leave a successful 20-year career in higher education at Evangel/Assemblies of God Theological Seminary to start this company. Sometimes it is difficult to decide what you are willing to give up to reach your goal.

Next phase …
I plan to do a live seminar later this year in Springfield on emotional intelligence and also create an online course on emotional quotient. For many, the difference between being a good leader and being a great leader is their emotional intelligence.

Pivot …
Speaking more on emotional intelligence than other topics because that is what businesses want and need. EI is one of the most important skills you can improve because it affects almost everything you do and say each day.

Biggest mistake …
Trying to do it all myself. I would invest in others who have the skill sets I don’t sooner, so I could focus more on my strengths. There’s not enough time in the day to do everything for your business. Buy other people’s time.

Food for thought …
Never stop improving, learning and trying new things because what works today may not work in five years. Continually listen to your customers and get better every day.