Interview with Brian Turner, Owner of Right At Home DC (Washington Examiner)

This week, I’m highlighting business owners in the metropolitan area who are living their dream of being their own boss.

Meet Brian Turner, a business owner who knows what it takes to own and operate a successful business.

Interview with Brian Turner

PW: What is the name of your business?

BT: Right at Home DC

PW: What does the business do?

BT: Our company provides in- home supportive care for seniors and other adults to help them to continue living independently. We offer two primary services including: Companion Care: meals, errands, light housekeeping and Personal Care: bathing, feeding, transfer assistance and dressing.

PW: When did you start the business?

BT: In October 2005.

PW: What did it take to get the business started?

BT: What did it take to get started...research, personal commitment, and determination....(Literally)an application, interview, background check with franchisor. franchise fee, start up costs, obtaining a location, finding the right individuals to join the team.

PW: How long did it take to make profits and why?

BT: Two and a half years to make a profit, one reason I find is that many people are still unfamiliar with home care. Although we take the time to educate the client about the benefits of homecare not every potential becomes a client right away.

PW: Why did you choose to start your own business?

BT: I saw a need in the community.

PW: What are your responsibilities?

BT: Managing the staff and guiding the overall vision and goals of the company. I do supervisory visits, conduct interviews, attend functions on behalf of the company.

PW: What are some of the problem/risks with running your business?

BT: Many of our clients are resistant to service, many people do not want to admit they need help. We have to earn the trust of our clients and their families in order to be successful in our services. People pleasing is not always an easy tasks but we have had many success stories.

PW: What are some benefits of owning your own business and running it?

BT: Benefits of running the business are personal growth in learning and developing effective communication skills while interacting with employees, clients and referral sources; and professional growth wearing various hats in the everyday business operations. Also the job satisfaction because I'm doing something I love.

PW: Do you enjoy your job and why?

BT: I love what I do, our services help to improve the quality of life of our clients. With our help many clients can stay in the familiar comfort of their own homes and maintain a sense of independence. I get a great amount of satisfaction knowing that I am providing a service to that makes the aging process more manageable and many of our clients become extended family.

PW: Are there certain qualities you are looking in an employee?

BT: Honestly, compassion, knowledge about their craft as well as a passion for it.

PW: If someone wanted to own a business like yours what are some recommendations for the person?

BT: Research the industry as much as possible, find a mentor, someone you trust that can give you solid, honest advice. Enjoy the journey, and have patience, success is a marathon not a race.

PW: Mr. Turner, thank you for taking the time to share your story in the Examiner. I wish you much continued success!

Source: Washington Examiner