In this Entrepreneur Story, Chao He, co-founder of the mobile app development company, Swenson He, shares his insights on entrepreneurship and the lessons he has learned over the past ten years. He emphasizes that entrepreneurship is not for everyone and highlights the importance of problem-solving skills and the rewarding nature of the journey. Chao also discusses his company's approach to building mobile app solutions and the pride he feels in training and nurturing his employees. He's philosophies on entrepreneurship, business growth, and the educational value of building a company shine through his experiences and achievements.

What are three things every entrepreneur should know?

One of the most important things entrepreneurs need to know when navigating the often misconstrued terrain of entrepreneurship is that this journey isn't a straight line. It's a series of steps, setbacks, and unexpected turns. Embracing the uncertainties and challenges is fundamental. Contrary to the romanticized notion of overnight success, understanding the reality of entrepreneurship is the first step toward sustained growth.

Another key aspect is recognizing the educational nature of entrepreneurship. It's akin to a real-world classroom where problem-solving skills take center stage. These skills, honed through overcoming challenges, become invaluable tools for entrepreneurs. Lastly, you need to acknowledge the emotional roller coaster that is entrepreneurship. While the lows can be intense, the highs, driven by the autonomy of success, are unparalleled.

What problem does your business solve, and who are its customers?

My company, Swenson He, specializes in creating mobile app solutions that address unique challenges where conventional approaches may fall short. We cater to two main types of clients—innovative dreamers with groundbreaking ideas and established companies looking to optimize their operations through mobile apps. Our approach is flexible, offering both "done with you" and "done for you" methods to accommodate a diverse range of clients.

By tailoring our solutions and aligning resources with specific needs, we navigate the intricate landscape of mobile app development, serving a mix of Fortune 500 companies and emerging startups.

What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?

Reflecting on my journey, the inspiration to become an entrepreneur stemmed from the dynamic relationships I made in small startup environments. The camaraderie and the ability to shape my own role were irresistible. Early experiences, working with startups and larger corporations, fueled my desire to strike a balance—blending the entrepreneurial spirit with a business model that rewards hard work and innovation.

Knowing what you know now, how would you have spent a million dollars when you first started your business?

Considering my business as a service-for-hire without initial investments, I explore two perspectives. If my business model required an infusion of capital, I would strategically allocate a million dollars to build essential departments—enhancing sales, marketing, creative, and engineering capacities. 

On the flip side, I provide insights into the typical dilemma faced by startups with limited funding, emphasizing the importance of efficiently solving a problem and rapidly delivering a solution to gain traction.

What is your proudest accomplishment as an entrepreneur?

In terms of accomplishments, while the endurance of my business over the years is noteworthy, I'd like to shine a light on a less talked-about achievement—the creation of an "honour roll" of ex-employees. 

I take pride in nurturing talent, often recruiting individuals with less experience and witnessing them grow into sought-after professionals in major tech companies. This stands as a testament to the impactful training and environment my business provides.

What big goals are you looking to achieve?

One critical challenge my business has faced is the seesaw between having too much work and too many resources or vice versa. Our ongoing efforts aim to smooth out this imbalance by generating a reliable demand for our services. We're on a journey to create a dependable pipeline for leads and achieve control over scaling, both in terms of demand and delivery capacity.

Chao He's entrepreneurial journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. As he navigates the challenges of scaling his business, his insights provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. Chao's story is a reminder that the entrepreneurial path is a dynamic and evolving adventure, where each challenge presents an opportunity to learn and grow.

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