We had the good fortune of connecting with Riccardo “Ricky” Salani Jr. and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Riccardo “Ricky”, what’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?
One piece of conventional advice that I often find myself disagreeing with is the idea that negotiations or business dealings should be competitive, where one party wins at the expense of the other. Instead, I believe in fostering collaboration and pursuing “win-win” situations. In negotiations, the aim shouldn’t be to gain the most, but to lose the least, and to achieve the best possible outcome for everyone involved.

Achieving win-win scenarios fosters contentment and generosity, a principle that can expand from personal relationships to wider societal facets such as businesses, schools, and communities, and ultimately become a cultural norm. I’m an ideologue, but I believe in starting small. If we can create regular win-wins in our home improvement collaborations, we’re leaving a positive societal impact while generating honest profits, a goal I’m dedicated to realizing.

What should our readers know about your business?

Where it started. What it runs on and what we are building.

Growing up, I was immersed in the world of construction, shadowing my father, a project manager for large construction companies. From visiting construction sites to soaking up the sounds, and smells of the job, my childhood was my first construction internship. Before middle school, I had experienced multiple projects ranging from elementary schools to airport terminals.

When my father decided to launch his own venture, Salani Engineers & General Contractors, it was a challenging journey. Despite his vast experience and qualifications, he faced obstacles due to economic downturns and related events. Yet, his resilience taught me invaluable lessons about entrepreneurship and perseverance.
Our bond as father and son transcends the norm, extending into a deep, shared experience of struggles and triumphs. His eventual absence is a sorrowful thought, but it fuels my determination to make his efforts worthwhile.
Now, we’re striving to differentiate our company by developing services other construction companies shy away from. We aim to grow a business that stands independently and harmonizes with the communities it serves. Size isn’t the priority, greatness is. I believe we are on the right path.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Aside from the popular attractions, two local spots I’d recommend for an authentic experience are Flanigan’s, which offers a lively, family-friendly environment, and Hammocks Grill, perfect for those seeking a cozy local bar scene. For food enthusiasts, Miwi’s Cafe is a must for the best sandwiches in town, and don’t forget to tell them Ricky “El Contratista” sent you.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

My success is attributed to numerous influences. I thank God daily for my journey, including its challenges. My father, who has been a guiding light in my life and a crucial consultant for our company. Authors such as Robert Greene, Ryan Holiday, and Peter Thiel have greatly influenced me through their works, shaping my understanding of human nature. Even coaches John Wooden, Phil Jackson, and Pat Riley who molded my leadership style through their stories and philosophies on culture and unity.
Three extraordinary women, Marilyn Salani, Sonia Valero, and Debbie Salani, have been pivotal in my development. My aunt Marilyn, our first major client, believed in us and her steadfast support was instrumental in our early stages. Debbie, a beloved addition to our family through marriage to my father, has imprinted a love and understanding of finance and an inspiring application of discipline in me. Sonia, my mother, the woman who gave me life, has been the pillar of my development and the ignition to my ambition. Her unwavering faith and deep-seated belief in me from my infancy combined with her unique blend of toughness and sweetness, her unyielding optimism, and an infectious sense of humor have all contributed to shaping the person I am today.
Above all, my loving fiancé, Marcela Gonzalez, is central to my journey. She has been a manifestation of God’s grace in my life. Her love, patience, and kindness not only help me overcome obstacles but have taught me the essence of life and what is most dear.

Website: https://myomnihome.com

Instagram: omnihome.ig

Twitter: myomnihome

Facebook: omnihome.fb

Other: https://dot.cards/omnihome

Image Credits
Image 1: Riccardo Salani Sr. & Ricky Salani Jr. Image 2: Ricky Salani Jr. & Marcela Gonzalez

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