Entrepreneur Interview: Clifford A. Bailey, TechSoft Systems

Business Name:
TechSoft Systems

Website URL:
www.techsoftsystems.com

Social Media Links:
Twitter: @cliffordabailey
Facebook: Clifford A. Bailey
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/cliffordabailey

Year Founded:
1983

Business Partners:
None (started with two but bought them out shortly after launch)

Number of Employees:
20

TechSoft Systems provides information technology support services for both for-profit and non-profit organizations with various IT infrastructures. Our team of engineers and support staff have invaluable knowledge and understanding of network and desktop needs and an unequivocal policy of outstanding customer service.

TechSoft Systems monitors and assesses rapidly changing technology and assists clients with adapting and evolving to new technology opportunities. Services include:

•  Managed Services (monitoring and managing servers, desktops and laptops, switches, routers…), including full IT department outsourcing on- or off-site, as well as on-demand IT services for home or office (what you need when you need it, crisis management, etc.)
•  Server virtualization and cloud connectivity
•  Remote offsite data back up
•  Hardware and software procurement through sister brand TechOrders

Was there a specific turning point when you realized your business was moving to the next level?

I knew we were on to something big when customers began referring our services to others and providing us high recommendations.  Another turning point was when we successfully adapted our business model to adjust to international outsourcing trends; we lost our biggest client but, because we had anticipated the industry shift, we did not have to cut any of our staff. I knew at that point that we could weather the storm.

We believe and role model the 3P’s at TechSoft Systems: Be Personal, Professional and Proactive. In addition, we maintain constant communication with the customer to ensure we deliver on their expectations. The personal face-to-face service makes them feel special, builds loyalty and encourages referrals.

I am a sought-after keynote speaker for various organizations. My speaking engagements have given TechSoft Systems exposure to a broader audience. I’m also an advocate for community and business development (specifically Minority Business Enterprises), which has increased exposure for TechSoft Systems on a national basis.

In the last two years I have been more deliberate in using social media (Twitter and LinkedIn) and writing blogs for my speaking business (www.cliffordabailey.com).  We also re-launched the TechSoft Systems web site and monitor our keywords and SEO.

I took a risk leaving my steady corporate job with Procter & Gamble 28 years ago to take this journey called entrepreneurship. Through innovation, creativity, perseverance and hard work, I have been rewarded with a business that I am proud to call my own; to still be in business 28 years later is very rewarding. Additionally, TechSoft Systems provides IT support for many nonprofit organizations (in most cases, we’re their entire IT department), which is very rewarding; in essence, we support organizations who support others.

Rapid changes in technology and, subsequently, in client needs present the greatest challenge for TechSoft Systems. Remaining competitive requires that we are always advancing; we can never be content with where we are or what we know. We overcome this by understanding technology from the perspective of our clients: what they need, when they need it and how best to deliver it. We regularly solicit feedback from clients, which contributes greatly to our competitiveness.

I can’t think of anything significant (within my control) that I would do differently. I am constantly seeking opportunities for improvement, and we adjust accordingly.

Understand the market; more specifically, understand your customers and speak their language. Deliver more than expected, and provide a competitive price that will create customer loyalty. Communicate to your customer on a frequent basis the value that you bring and the contribution you’re making to their organization.

Think and Grow Rich, Dream Giver, Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Acres of Diamonds, What They Don’t Teach You in Harvard Business School, www.girlontheroof.com (marketing resource)

That my greatest joy comes from teaching and challenging others to think differently. The idea of inspiring others to reach for their goals gets me out of bed every morning.

I am writing a book on the topic of personal effectiveness (using the Get in S.H.A.P.E. model – Securing Higher Achievement and Personal Effectiveness).  It is in the form of an allegory and is inspired, in part, by my parents and grandparents.