Ray Swartz Verizon Digital Ready Mentor
- English
How I can help
My professional background
I have started and run several business. The most successful one, I ran for 20 years from start-up to wind down. That one, Berkeley Decision/Systems, went from being a PC consultancy to a training company and an on-line sales business. The on-line sales business was sold off as a separate business when I could no longer run it effectively.
I have an MBA (from UC Berkeley) and, initially, my business grew out of the thesis that I wrote for that degree. Along the way, I wrote 2 books, was an editor of the major magazine in my market (Unix/World), and published my own newsletter.
How to work with me
What I can offer
My offer is to consult with people starting businesses, those trying to grow a business and those trying to determine what product or service to sell and how. I have done all of these things. Mostly, I ask questions, encourage, and offer insights based on what worked and what didn’t for me.
My expectations for a successful mentoring relationship
I expect people to do what they say, be punctual, and have a burning desire to succeed.
How entrepreneurs can prepare before we start
It is best for people to know what they are trying to accomplish, what their strengths and weaknesses are and what kind of advice and support is needed.