We had the good fortune of connecting with Everette Ligon and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Everette, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I initially started my business, I tried to continually ask myself two questions; 1. if I were to go to an established company that offered the same services as my company, what would my business need to display to appear just as legit and dependable as the number one company offering the same services, and 2. if I were a customer, what would I need to see in a business to make my want to give them my business versus another company offering the same services.
These two questions helped me to ensure that I was building my company to eventually perform on the same level as the number one company in the profession is. It also helped me to ensure that I could provide answers to the questions that customers seeking my services might ask.
I learned that people want to feel comfortable with who they do business with. This comfort can come due to the business’ reputation through longevity, or through a new business being able to offer, and provide the same services that larger companies offer, but with better customer service, and dependable consistent results.
I’ve always said that I ultimately want my company to be a household name. I believe it will happen.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have had so many jobs throughout my life. I believe that my previous job experiences have helped me to be as well versed as I am today.
I spent 10 years in the military as a fighter jet mechanic. This job taught me that no matter what, you have to get the job done. Many times someone else’s life depended on me properly doing my job. This showed me that excuses are not acceptable. The military taught me discipline, and proper execution is key to success.
After the military, I worked in just about every work atmosphere from cooperate to sales to hospitality. Working in so many areas helped me to sharpen, and develop skills that are almost required for success. I learned everything from how to deal with upset customers in hospitality, to how to close a business deal while working in sales.
I feel that my work background has provided me with essential tools that I would not have attained through a life of one or two career experiences.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I have traveled and lived in many different places in the world, and I have to say that Atlanta is truly a place like no other. There are so many different cultures in one city that it is almost unreal the amount of options that are available here. I would compare it to no other place in the U.S.
There are many places to hangout, and enjoy the scenery. Some of the places I would recommend is the Ponce City Market, Grant Park, The Atlanta Belt line, or the Coca Cola Factory.
For food I would suggest DaVinci’s pizza, Desta’s Ethiopian Kitchen, Mirko’s Pasta, or Merchinsons Fish Market. These are places that I enjoy regularly when it comes to good food.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I try to show support, and encouragement to anyone who is attempting, or actively running a business because I understand how discouraging it can be at times. The people who showed me support, and encouraged me to keep going are the ones that stand out to me.
I am a spiritual person, so naturally I have to acknowledge God. I feel that I am blessed to have the mindset, and awareness to pursue this path. Also the opportunity. I am aware that there are so many others who are not in my position, and for this, I am Grateful to God.
My wife provides me with words of encouragement and affirmation which helps me to continue during difficult times.
She also helps me to be reasonable with myself, and don’t expect Rome to be built overnight.
My family has also always been there for me. They have always told me not to settle, and go for what I believe in because it can be done with hard work. I believe this.
Website: FSSGA.COM
Instagram: _FSS_16
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/everette-ligon/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Filter-Screening-Services-LLC-329576734042788