Today we’d like to introduce you to Hamid Lalani.
Hi Hamid, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey into entrepreneurship started in the Research Triangle Park (RTP) during the early 1990s. I joined an exciting optical telecom startup that experienced tremendous growth, culminating in a public offering during the explosive global internet boom. That initial experience ignited a passion for innovation and technology that would shape my career path for years to come. Following a highly fulfilling two-decade-long career in Silicon Valley’s dynamic high-tech sector, my family and I made the decision to return to our roots in North Carolina.
While the thought of retirement didn’t appeal to me, nor did I have any existing hobbies that offered the same level of engagement, I knew I needed a change. I was looking for a path that allowed for a more balanced lifestyle, one where I could be my own boss and control my own destiny, instead of relying on external funding sources. The sign business presented a unique opportunity. Its tangible nature stood in stark contrast to the often abstract world of telecom and software, and I was particularly drawn to the prospect of seeing projects from conception to completion within a relatively short timeframe. This appealed to me greatly, as I had become somewhat weary of the endless cycle of corporate initiatives that seemed to stretch on indefinitely.
To launch my venture, I purchased what was essentially the “concept” of the sign business from an entity that offered a comprehensive “business in a box” package. This package encompassed a range of resources, including a one-time fee that covered initial year support, established supply contracts, comprehensive training sessions, assistance with hiring, and an initial investment in essential equipment. What truly set this opportunity apart was the freedom it offered; there were absolutely no imposed warranties, rules, or restrictions dictating where I could ultimately take the business. This flexibility was exactly what I was looking for as I embarked on this exciting new chapter.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been a rewarding journey, both professionally and financially. We started with no revenue and were able to cross $1,000,000 in the third year of operation. However, the road wasn’t entirely smooth. Some of the struggles we faced include:
* Navigating the challenges of COVID-19 during our second year of operation.
* The ongoing effort of building and maintaining a motivated team.
* Identifying our unique selling points and effectively communicating them to the market.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Mercury Signs Inc.?
As we matured and found our footing in the sign business, we recognized that customers, including large and small retail establishments, institutions, and housing businesses, often had surprisingly low expectations for our trade. Sign makers are frequently categorized with other “commodity” trades like construction, plumbing, and HVAC.
At Mercury Signs, we challenge these perceptions by prioritizing a comprehensive “experience” rather than solely focusing on the product and its price. We function as a boutique, one-stop shop studio that distinguishes itself through:
* Creative sign design
* High-tech fabrication
* Error-free, tech-enabled installation
* Tech-automation-driven project management, ensuring a seamless process
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
One business principle that has contributed to our greatest success in winning and keeping our customers is the principle of “Empathy.” We encourage all our employees to make all big and small decisions by asking themselves, “What would be my decision if this sign was for my own business ?” It is akin to being a fiduciary of our customers. This approach ensures that every interaction and decision reflects a genuine understanding and care for our customer base, fostering loyalty and long-term relationships. By putting ourselves in our customers’ shoes, we create a more personalized and satisfying experience, ultimately driving our business forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mercurysignsinc.com
