Collaboration Business Consulting, an officially certified LGBT Business Enterprise, aims to inspire, educate and empower proactive leaders to achieve breakthrough performance. The company works with Β CEOβs, company executives leaders and influencers in a variety of industries, including technology, specialty manufacturing, large scale construction & software development.
We interviewed Michael Gunther, founder of Collaboration Business Consulting, a self defined “born entrepreneur with a knack for identifying issues that prevent organizations from growing”, who has recently joined the GGBA as a Board Member.
Read the interview below for some very insightful thoughts and tips, and watch the video of Michael explaining his business and how it relates to his personal story. If you would like to contact Michael and his team, visit their website here: https://collaboration-llc.com/
Please tell us about your business, its mission and values as well what makes you different.
Our mission at Collaboration Business Consulting is to inspire, educate and empower proactive leaders to achieve breakthrough performance.
Our firm aids businesses in embedding scalable management and accountability structures while accelerating financial growth, with the average client reaching a 322% three-year growth in revenue. We create and execute customized strategies to boost profits and build a sustainable business, and develop management infrastructure and growth strategies to reach financial and sales goals. The team is led by Founder and Senior Consultant, Michael Gunther. Learn more at www.Collaboration-llc.com.
Why did you decide to create your business?
Collaboration Business Consulting was created to impact the lives of entrepreneurs and giving them the tools they need to succeed in making their vision a reality. Strengthening the community is my core ambition in life and I viewed starting a business consulting firm as a way to support others. I find great joy in sharing my entrepreneurial spirit and knowledge with others. It’s satisfying to see our clients develop their businesses and themselves, in turn igniting the local economy and producing a new generation of leaders dedicated to achieving their full potential.
Do you have any specific policies in place that benefit the LGBT Community?
As a company managed by an LGBTQ leader, along with a team of LGBTQ allies, we are Β dedicated to reinforcing diversity, inclusivity, and equality β both in the workplace and in our communities as a whole. We support LGBTQ businesses in their growth and strive to give all of our clients the tools they need to be authentic. [A2] Our company’s culture is based on inclusion βour team and our client roster all exemplify diversification in gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
How did you hear about the GGGBA and why did you decide to join?
I learned about GGBA through our work with PG&E. I wanted to become a GGBA member to support our community and the work GGBA does for advocacy on behalf of the LGBTQ business community.
Has being an LGBT entrepreneur affected your business’ path? If yes, how?
I’ve found that being authentic and being myself has allowed me to be a more effective leader. As an LGBT entrepreneur, I am choosy about who I might do business with, to ensure our values align. I enjoy focusing on supporting other LGBTQ businesses and start-ups.
How has the GGBA helped your business so far?
I have developed sincere connections through GGBA and taken advantage of the myriad of educational opportunities the organization provides.
How has the LGBTBE certification helped your business?
As a valued member of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, we have been exposed to new opportunities through an expanded marketplace and exposure to larger organizations.
What has been your biggest reward / satisfaction during your journey as an entrepreneur? And your biggest disappointment / nerve wracking situation ?
I am thrilled to see my clients and team members achieve breakthrough performance, both personally and professionally. Β I have a knack for identifying issues that prevent organizations from growing and our team helps build impactful, purposeful and authentic collaborations that result in sustainable and scalable businesses. When the recession hit, every business had to reevaluate. I am proud that we can consider ourselves Recession Warriors, as we reshaped and redefined our business and that of our clients to withstand economic downturns.
What’s the most important lesson you learned being an entrepreneur?
Everything we do in business is based on building trusting relationships with our team, our network, and our clients. Entrepreneurs must persevere in their pursuits, but also allow for flexibility and the ability to change plans as necessary. It’s important for every entrepreneur to find their “Why”: Why are you starting a business? What will you achieve? This gives a solid base to build upon as the business develops.
What advice would you give someone who is thinking of starting their own business?
Do it! But first get clear on your purpose beyond making money. Money is just an output. Instead, take time to understand your personal drive for creating a new business. Then, lean on that drive as it will grow during the good times and will boost you up during the challenging times.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
No successful business is developed alone. Be sure to build solid, genuine relationships with people and use the resources offered by them. Above all, enjoy the journey and have fun β this is your dream, so be sure to capture it!
