Center Director, Southern Arkansas University ASBTDC
Q: What is your background?
A: I grew up in the clothing manufacturing business. I joined banking in the legal compliance field and moved into lending. Then I did accounting and human resources for an international chemical company. From there I moved into economic development before joining the ASBTDC. All of these career fields merged and led to who I am today as a consultant.
Q: How would you describe your approach to consulting?
A: I ask a ton of questions. This helps me provide a path forward – but I also really love to learn from my clients.
Q: What’s the best part of your job?
A: No two days are the same. And I get to meet a lot of new and fascinating people!
Q: What drew you to working with small businesses and entrepreneurs?
A: I grew up in small business. I enjoy looking for and implementing money-saving efficiencies, and I enjoy the stories of each business owner’s journey.
Q: What do you wish everybody knew about starting a business?
A: It is necessary to understand your numbers. Numbers are the facts upon which good decisions are made.
Q: How do you think owning a business has or hasn’t changed in the last few years?
A: The fundamentals are still the same – lots of hard work. But technology has changed the way we can do business, and it will continue to do so.
Q: What is an ASBTDC service you would like to see more businesses in your area utilizing?
A: I would love to see business owners taking advantage of the live ASBTDC training opportunities, especially those around financial analysis and literacy.
Q: What lessons from your own experience operating a business do you most often pass along to clients?
A: Choose an accountant wisely. You need one you can communicate well with and with whom you share mutual respect.
Q: What types of projects do you enjoy most?
A: The ones I’ve never done before. And ones where the client is eager and ready to move their idea forward.
Janell was the 2022 Arkansas State Star.
