June 1, 2024 | Authored By Cynthia Giles
Key Takeaways
- Hire the Right People: If you want peace in your business, hire candidates who agree with the core beliefs of your organization.
- Make Smart Financial Decisions: If you desire financial freedom, eliminate debt and make wise investments.
- Meet with a Mentor: Accelerate the growth of your business by choosing mentors who help your business thrive.
Valencia Giles, owner of the Lawrenceville-Suwanee School of Music, a school that teaches music lessons to students of all ages in metro-Atlanta, started her small business 14 years ago. The music school is well-known for winning prestigious awards, including the National Music School of the Year Award and the Moxie Outstanding Organization Award!
Valencia’s business partner is her husband, Ozzie Giles. They’ve been married for 41 years. While Ozzie manages the operations of the school, Valencia, an accomplished musician of 57 years, serves as the Music Director. Together, they provide students of multiple skill levels with a comprehensive music education.
The Lawrenceville-Suwanee School of Music stands out from music schools around the country because of the genuine love they share for the community.
Valencia shares, “As a seven-year-old, I played music on a small spinet piano in my living room. Since my mom was harsh with her words, music helped me work through feelings of low self-esteem. When I became a mom, I taught music lessons inside of my house. After a personal tragedy, we made the decision to move the business outside of our home. I borrowed $5,000 from my uncle and used that money to move into my first commercial property. The rest was history!”
Today, the Lawrenceville-Suwanee School of Music is teaching music and art lessons to over 1,200 students, providing employment opportunities for 60 teachers, and accomplishing philanthropic work as a debt free business.
When Valencia opened the doors to her home, she opened her mind to the possibilities of new dreams. Her passion for music education began in her neighborhood, serving her community, one person at a time.
“Choosing to believe in myself made all the difference. I’m happy because
I have the freedom to enjoy my life and be at peace with who I am.”
Find Peace: Hire the Right People
One of the best takeaways I heard from Ozzie Giles was:
“If you want peace in your business, hire the right people.”
“Wow, I’ve never been to a job interview like this before!” the musician said. “You want to know me as a person more than you want to know about my degree or credentials!”
I asked Ozzie about his recruitment strategy for job interviews:
“I believe in hiring people who fit the core values of my organization. If they have impressive credentials, but lack good character or integrity, it’s not the right decision.”
As Valencia put it, “You need to hire a team that will take your business to the next level.”
Find Joy: Make Smart Financial Decisions
Valencia reached success in her business because she made smart financial decisions.
Valencia shares,
“I avoided debt when I started my business. I purchased what I needed from garage sales and consignment shops. My stuff was appealing, but I used furniture from my home for my first commercial property. I was determined to start small.”
Ozzie agrees, “Small business owners should avoid debt and create an emergency fund for their business. When you put money aside for emergencies, you’re prepared for the unexpected and less stressed about your finances.”
Find Harmony: Meet with a Mentor
One takeaway from Valencia Giles was,
“The smartest person in your business cannot be you. Form relationships with people who have skills that you need. A big factor of my success was my willingness to receive help from mentors who guided me.”
Darryl Brooks is a trusted advisor for Valencia and Ozzie Giles. Darryl is a State Farm Insurance Agent who loves to inspire leaders and make a significant impact on the community. Darryl’s had a successful business for over twenty years. Before they invited Darryl to their grand opening, they met together to discuss small business insurance.
Valencia opened up about their connection.
“Since Ozzie handles the finances, I met Darryl through him. Darryl is like a good neighbor because I can tell he genuinely cares about us. He protects our assets and shows interest in us as regular people. Our connection is harmonious because we share the same vision: the dream to make a difference in our community, one person at a time.”
Ozzie shares insight, “I enjoy doing business with Darryl from State Farm. He may be in the business of insurance, but he’s also in the business of giving back to others.”
Building a strong network of people who support your business is key to your success. Valencia and Ozzie Giles have learned the importance of living in harmony with others, releasing a sound of love that inspires a purposeful life.
Hire the right people, make smart financial decisions, and meet with a mentor. Most importantly, believe in yourself. Enjoy your business and make a difference.
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