We had the good fortune of connecting with Kevin Bam Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kevin Bam, is there something you believe many others might not?
The one piece of conventional advice that I disagree with is, that there are self-made success stories, millionaires or business owners. My theory is, we all need someone to grant us the opportunity to prove ourselves. As long as we need consumers, end-users, fans, employees or buyers, then we are never self-made. In my opinion, it’s a selfish mindset to believe that you made it to your level of success without any assistance. There are people who come before us to provide inspiration, motivation and guidance for us to follow in life, business or whatever path we choose.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am the CEO of The E Perspective LLC, which focus on providing corporate infrastructure, growth strategy and business funding for startups and small businesses. After being a successful professional poet for a number of years, I decided to break into the real estate industry. The new venture had me confused, because some of the language professionals would speak in meetings. After being complexed, I decided to obtain my MBA so I wouldn’t feel uncomfortable when business terms would be used in future meetings. That program boosted my confidence, because I have an understanding of the language they spoke. I’ve always had my hand in consulting; however I was shy and speaking publicly still had it challenges. To get to where I am today had it’s challenges and wasn’t an easy transition. To overcome my challenges, I had to practice presentations and get in front of as many people possible–which had increase my chances of becoming better in my weak areas.

Some of the things I have learned along the way is, to speak up for myself, take chances, plan and be very organized. If you’re too soft in business, people will walk all over you or take your business from under your nose. Knowing when to turn down business is key, because you can avoid future problems with clients. Overall, you can’t be everything for everyone and the moment you realize that–you have identified the niche market concept.

What I would like for people to know is, I really have a passion for small business growth, because they create the most jobs. I have spent years building my networks, strategies and processes to provide the best services for this community. I’ve dissected the challenges and found solutions for these issues. My mission is to provide real results for real business owners. I am value-driven, because they will position me in a trusted manner.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were to visit me in the beautiful City of Chicago, I would show them the tourist attraction on day one. Days two and three, I would take them to eat at Beggars pizza and other famous pizza places, then I would take them to party in the west loop. The final step is, to take them to Wrigleyville for bar hopping and food. Days four and five will be reserved for Navy Pier, visiting.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to take time to thank my National Black MBA Association (Chicago Chapter) family for allowing me to develop my business skills. They really provided me a platform to showcase my ideas, leadership and vision for the development of the small business community. I would like to thank my good friend Iggy Mwela for getting my break into entrepreneurship as a professional poet 10 years ago. He used his influence to allow me to join his agency and learn the business behind the performances and workshops. I would like to thank my good friend/business partner Lee McMiller, who help me with building my presentation and sells skills–as well as being by my side on numerous ventures. Entrepreneurship can be a lonely road, but having someone to travel on the journey makes it easier. Finally, I would like to thank my family for always believing in me and speaking positivity over me. Also, I would like to thanks Sean Wilson for putting me in rooms to show me how big business deals are conducted and showing me how to be a better businessman.

Website: www.theeperspectiveconsulting.com

Instagram: KevinBamSmith

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-smith-mba-03613742/

Twitter: KevinBamSmith

Image Credits
I would like to thank T.R.U.E. Stories Media for providing the shoot for me.

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