Hi, Kolawole, thank you so much for taking the time for an interview. Tell me…How long have you lived in California (asks the woman from New Jersey who envies your year-round sun)?
I have lived in California for 38 years ( i.e., since 1979).
Tell me about how you got into your business. What attracted you to technology?
Computer Technology was at an infant stage when I graduated from high school in Nigeria. Back then, only a few universities in Nigeria offered computer degree programs. The competition to gain admission was tough, and there were few spaces for freshmen. Instead of applying to universities, I visited some computer installation departments in my country and was hooked. I was determined to acquire the skills necessary to work in this emerging industry in Nigeria. Hence, I enrolled at a vocational school and got a diploma in Computer Programming. After graduating, I traveled to America where I completed my undergraduate studies in Information Systems Management and graduate studies in Business Administration.
After working for different organizations in esteemed positions such as PC Specialist, Computer Repair Instructor, etc., I was laid off. Then, it dawned on me that I could harness all of my Information Technology experience in support services and instruction to help small businesses and the underserved. In 1985, I started my own business in my apartment, providing computer training to businesses and individuals part time. Soon, I moved to a store front to offer sales, services, and training on a full-time basis. In 2000, the business was incorporated (Micro-Easy Computer, Inc), and I established Micro-Easy Vocational School the same year. Now, we focus on Computer Repair (Apple &PCs), Corporate Sales, and Information Technology training in addition to job placement assistance. We’ve worked on several collaborative partnerships over the years with nonprofit organizations and Veterans organizations to help the underserved.
What is the most rewarding part of what you do?
The joy of changing lives is priceless, helping people acquire IT skills and get a job. Moreover, the smiles and referrals received from small businesses after completion of contracts or resolving a computer network or computer repair problem is gratifying and indescribable at the same time. Money follows great service; everything else is the icing on the cake.
What advice would you give to entrepreneurs?
Provide what customers want or need with great customer service, and your business will bring you joy and money. Honesty, tenacity, and professional assistance, as needed, will sustain your business. Focus on quality service rather than price wars. Turn an ordeal into an opportunity.
For example, we dumped computer sales (retail) and converted the space into a computer training school---we turned a lemon into lemonade.
Thank you for taking the time for an interview. Such an honor. Any words to end with?
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