Kris Simmons' commitment to
learning and mastering the principles of business, acquired
through self-teaching and mentor relationships, won him
awards for excellence in video production and three more
international videography awards would follow. Simmons’
business acumen also has helped make Fire Eye Productions,
his Chattanooga, Tennessee-based studio, profitable—he says
it now ranks among the top three corporate video production
companies in the city, with 100-plus clients at the local,
regional, and national level
To hear Simmons tell it, "The key to improving a video business is to dedicate time and energy to being a better entrepreneur. If you’re struggling to survive, I bet it’s because you lack a basic knowledge of how to properly manage, grow, and sustain a successful business. Let’s face it: There are thousands of videographers out there who produce great work but can’t figure out how to generate enough money to earn a living.
"The only way to radically improve your business," he continues, "is to become a student of business. Read books, attend seminars, search for and develop mentor relationships with successful business owners. Anything you can do to enhance your business knowledge will have a huge impact" on your overall success.
Easier said than done? Simmons says it doesn’t have to be. Here’s a short
interview on how he did it.