Q.1: Kindly give our readers an introduction to your business. Please include what your business is all about, in which city you are located and if you have offices in multiple locations/ cities.
Ans: Affinity Hearing is a private practice audiology clinic serving all ages of those in pursuit of better hearing. We offer hearing evaluations and hearing solutions. Our main office is located in Plymouth, MN and our satellite office is in St. Michael MN.
Q.2: Kindly give us a brief description about yourself (it should include your brief educational or entrepreneurial background and list some of your major achievements).
Ans:: I’m Courtney Stone. I received my doctorate in Audiology in 2009 and have been a MN licensed audiologist since 2005. I take pride in helping my clients hear at their very best by keeping current with the latest advances in hearing technology. In my practice I have chosen to work with all of the top hearing aid manufacturers, rather than just offering one brand because I feel that is in the best interest of my clients. I love that I get to help people stay connected in their social, work and family lives through better hearing. It’s very rewarding work.
Q.3: What inspired you to (start a new business venture) or (to make significant changes in an existing business)? How did the idea for your business come about?
Ans: Since becoming an audiologist, I have always dreamed of having my own practice. There were a couple options that came up over the past few years but just didn’t work out. The timing was right for this transition last year so I jumped at the opportunity. I was blessed to have worked under amazing practice owners prior to this change and felt prepared from what I had learned under their leadership.
Q.4: What three pieces of advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs?
Ans: Due Diligence, due diligence and more due diligence
Q.5: What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur?
Ans: I don’t think I can answer that question yet as this is my first year of my first entrepreneurial venture. I’m still learning a ton.
Q.6: How many hours do you work a day on average?
Ans: 10 hours a day most days, sometimes more sometimes less. I’ve definitely spent the majority of a weekend or two in the office too.
Q.7: To what do you most attribute your success?
Ans: Being professional, fair and ethical. I believe my clients can tell how genuinely I want to work with them.
Q.8: How do you go about marketing your business? What has been your most successful form of marketing?
Ans: I spend almost all my marketing funds on growing my online presence. Asking my current clients for referrals and reviews is the best way to attract new clients.
Q.9: Where did your organizations funding/capital come from and how did you go about getting it? How did you obtain investors for your venture?
Ans: I checked into many financing options. In my industry there are organizations that help current business owners find their exit plan/replacement person. I reached out to them years before I purchased this office and asked them to keep me in mind for opportunities in my area. They also help finance the purchase through a loan.
Q.10: What is the best way to achieve long-term success?
Ans: Ask me in 5-10 years.
Q.11: Where you see yourself and your business in 5 – 10 years?
Ans: I’d like to see my current office grow into the space I have by adding additional employees and have my satellite office be a full time operation.
Q.12: Excluding yours, what company or business do you admire the most?
Ans: I’ve always admired Apple with their innovative technology. Having a product that people line up for is something to recognize and respect. They also hit the mark by making their retail store an “experience” to the consumer.
Q.13: If you had the chance to start your career over again, what would you do differently?
Ans: I really wouldn’t change the course of what happened in my career. I have learned a lot from each place I’ve worked (hospital setting, hearing aid manufacturer, and private practice). Sometimes I think I should have taken the leap sooner but I’m glad I waited until my son was a little older and I had more experience under my belt.
Q.14: How has being an entrepreneur affected your family life?
Ans: It has been very stressful at times. My family has seen me break down more than a few times during the start up of my business. They have also seen me more excited and enthusiastic about my work than I ever have been. I do work longer hours than I used to, but also have more flexibility to take time off for school events, or sports. When my son has a cold, I can bring him to work and have a sick “den” where he can sleep and watch movies so I can still get some work done.
Q.15: What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage fear?
Ans: I pray when I am feeling worried or afraid (and when I’m not). Having faith keeps me centered and focused on the important things and less anxious about things out of my control.
Company Name: Affinity Hearing
Address: 3025 Harbor Ln N, Ste 105
Plymouth, MN 55447
Tel No (763) 744-1190
Toll Free Number: (888) 874-3334
E-mail Id c.stone@affinityhearing.com
Website: https://www.affinityhearing.com/
