JJC Hires Two New Analysts to Help Business Owners Find Better Solutions 

There is an old saying that two heads are better than one and Joliet Junior College (JJC) is taking it literally.

On February 15, Carol Turney and Brian Thompson began working as business analysts for JJC's Small Business Development Center. Their mission is to help small business entrepreneurs succeed – even in this economy.

"There are so many approaches to starting a business that many potential business owners fail to realize all their options," said Turney. "They need to reach out and do a great deal of research before taking that first step."

Thompson agrees. "Planning is the single most important factor for long-term success," he said. "Business owners need to focus and ask the right questions."

Helping entrepreneurs make a good start is only part of their job, however. Each analyst also brings their particular expertise to their clients. "With my planning and analysis background, I believe it is important in business to use all the tools available to help maximize revenue and control expenses," said Turney.

Thompson's strength is in business strategy and performance improvement. "I know how to measure and track results," he said. "It is important to understand that selling requires more discipline than talent. An entrepreneur needs to stay focused on their goals and objectives and contact new prospects on a daily basis or they won't succeed."

"Both analysts bring years of experience and a depth of business understanding to the job," said Amy Murphy, director of Corporate and Community Services for JJC. "I believe new and experienced entrepreneurs will learn a lot from them."

Turney and Thompson have some words of wisdom for small business owners. Here are just a few:

  • Plan: To achieve long-term success, business owners need a long-term plan
  • Stay Focused: Be flexible, but stay focused on goals
  • Develop Good Relationships: Build relationships with other business owners, vendors, professionals, and most importantly, customers
  • Advertise: Advertise even if it hurts. "Companies that advertise more during a recession do better in the long run," said Thompson. "They get a better market share."

For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Joliet Junior College's Small Business Development Center at (815) 280-1400, or e-mail sbdc@jjc.edu.