Francine Smilen of Advantage Performance Group of NY meditates every morning.
Business Name
Advantage Performance Group of NY
Business Description
APG helps organizations accelerate sales, build leaders at all levels and improve business acumen.
Start Date
June 2002
Best thing about working for yourself?
I love the freedom to schedule my time and the ability to be creative as well as tactical.
Worst thing about working for yourself?
Sometimes I cannot take on projects because I don’t have the resources. I am looking to bring in a junior partner next year, so please contact me if you are interested.
Why did you start your business?
I have worked in my field for almost 30 years and did not want to go to another consulting firm where someone else called the shots. Owning this franchise enables me to have a support network while I make my own decisions. I can leverage the network I have built over my career, while owning my own business.
When did you start to think of yourself as an entrepreneur?
As soon as I had my first negative revenue year! And I didn’t get an income tax refund for the first time.
How do you relax?
I meditate every morning and work out as often as I can. I also sing in a synagogue choir.
What is something that you are known for?
My sense of humor, ability to provide stellar service to my clients and my curly hair.
What 5 things would you never like to be without?
My paper, month-at-a glance calendar, my BlackBerry (never thought I would say that), my reading glasses, and perspective
What’s a business that you think is interesting or inspiring?
I love Trader Joe’s: fun, well-priced, take care of their workers, make awful things like long lines worthwhile, great products and customer focused.
Who is a person that inspires you?
My partner, Tod Ensign. He has been running a NFP group for almost 40 years. He is always on the edge of issues and has become an “eminence gris” in his world. He also doesn’t get to work until 12 Noon…my dream come true!
Justine Clay