In the modern age where global warming is an alarming issue, it’s good to see businesses that go green.Green Revolution is such an organization that sells Green Consulting services. They also have a wide range of energy and water saving products.
Jonathan Friedman, the owner of Green Revolution, is a graduate in Arts in Economics and Organizational Studies from the University of Michigan and is a part of the local U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Chapter. Jonathan along with his associates, Alexandra and Richi is on their mission to make newer and sustainable constructions that provides green solution to cope up with global warming issues.
E-Brandz decided to catch up with Jonathan Friedman to know more about his business that renders a solution to the issue of sustainability.
Kindly give our readers a brief idea about your business.
We provide free Green Consultant training to empower people to make a difference in their communities while making a part time income and building work experience for the future. They make an income by selling Green Consulting services as also our energy and water saving product line for commission.
Tell us all about your journey.
I was born in Jerusalem, Israel, and raised in Hollywood, Florida. Then at the University of Michigan, I did my Bachelors in Arts with specialization in Economics and Organizational Studies. Currently I am doing my Masters in Renewable Energy Development while working full time at Green Revolution. I am also a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional; and an active member of the local U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Chapter, where I am working towards making new construction more sustainable.
How did the idea for your business come about?
Richi, the current President of the company, got the idea while in China, where he saw Green Revolution taking place on a massive scale. Solar hot water panels and millions of energy efficient CFL light bulbs were being distributed to households. These simple innovations were leading to lower energy bills for those who needed them the most, and were being priced at a level that almost anyone could afford. He reasoned if China could afford it, so could we here in the US. Basically, Green Revolution is not just my brainchild but also of Richi, the company president and Alexandra, who was already involved in the process of bringing about a green change. We three joined forces and the rest is history.
When I was finishing my graduation, we learnt that not only global warming, but recession, too, is a grave issue. Recession kept my classmates from getting the practical skills they needed to become productive members of the workforce and to move their careers forward. It then struck me that a Green Consultant Training Program could provide young people with a chance to build practical skills, make part time money, and do something that they could be proud of. In addition, I made it free with the belief that anyone with the enthusiasm to join Green Revolution has the right to get the practical skills to do so.
What is different at green revolution?
We, at Green Revolution tried using the best innovations available in the market and now provide practical advice and easy products through the company’s certified Green Consultants that allow anyone to save energy and water. Now, anyone who wants to make a difference while saving money can do so at a low cost. Whether your goal is to cut your utility bills in half, live more sustainably, or to do your part to the environment, Green Revolution empowers you to do so with the best water saving devices and energy efficient products.
How important have good employees been to your success?
It has been a team effort all along and it’s important to take advantage of the employees’ complimentary skills.
What three pieces of advice would you give to college students who want to become entrepreneurs?
First of all, there are a million good ideas out there. They are a dime a dozen. The more difficult portion is executing upon those ideas effectively, which is why you need a great team.
Second of all, don’t be afraid to think big. There are many people who can point out the faults in your business, and there are many obstacles you will have to overcome. But if you keep your eye on the goal, you can succeed. But you must believe in yourself.
And finally, make sure you enjoy what you do. As an entrepreneur, you will spend long hours working on your business, and if you do not enjoy it, this will be all the more difficult.
What motivates you?
The potential to make a difference and an effect-based change on a large scale motivates me.
How do you generate new ideas?
The best way to generate new ideas has always been to look at my own past experience, to use practical thinking skills, and of course, to analyze my competitors.
What are your ideals?
That going green is not a privilege, but a right, and should be available to all.
Do you believe there is some sort of pattern or formula to becoming a successful entrepreneur?
Entrepreneurship results from a combination of environment and being born with certain skills.
Who has been your greatest inspiration?
My father, who started his business from scratch and was able to achieve great success. He has been a great role model and supporter for me while I was starting my business.
What is your favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur?
I get to work for myself, and if the company succeeds, I succeed. I get to put my effort towards something I own, which is invaluable.
Excluding yours, what company or business do you admire the most?
of course.