The Buckner Company

Josh Tebbs

Risk Management – Commercial Insurance

A Q&A with an Ogden-Weber Chamber of Commerce Small Business Advisors. Each advisor offers up to two free hours of consultation to help small businesses in many industries and areas. To find an advisor, click here.

Q: Why did you want to be a Small Business Advisor?

A: There have been a few people who have taken a chance on me, believed in me and taught me success. Of course, it takes effort on our end to develop the skills needed in the craft we have chosen. Still our success is not ours alone. There are and will be people who contribute to our achievements. Ultimately, the reason is my enjoyment in helping others achieve their goals and see their vision become a reality.

Q: What expertise can you provide to small business owners?

A: Before I talk about what I can provide, the most important part of a successful business is the people behind the brand. Having been part of the interviewing and training of thousands of people, I know a little bit about the effort it takes to build a solid team. Strong leadership and a talented well-coached team are the foundations to success in business.

Risk management, proper business analysis, systems, recruitment, branding, marketing, administrative tasks, human resources, insurance, company standards and policies are things that separate a small, or new business from a large established one. Many times, it’s just knowing where to go and who to talk to for these things to take shape. Through my experiences with one of the largest and most successful franchises in the world and working with my own small boot strapped companies, I have come to learn a lot about what is needed to make a business successful. Now that I work in risk management and commercial insurance, I understand what is necessary and needed to keep your business protected and thriving.

Q: How can this expertise benefit small businesses?

A: Most of my expertise comes from experience. Although I do have a wide range of friends and associates that are able to assist me in things I may not know. Whether you are just getting started or are looking for ways to scale and/or protect your business, I may be able to help you.

Q: What is something you wish you knew when you started your career?

A: I have started my second and third careers now, so I’d say it’s okay to have more than one. You should have more than one. You’ve heard the saying, “do what you love and you’ll never work a day.” In my opinion, if you do something you love everyday it will become monotonous and you’ll have to do it, not want to. I’d say do what uses your natural talents and enables you. Do that which challenges you and keeps you excited.

Q: What did you do to become an expert in your field?

A: I ask questions, a lot of questions and then I did it. Study others who are successful, read and do research. Take chances and don’t be afraid to fail — if you learn from a failure then it becomes a step towards success.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Words to live by: macro patience, micro speed.