Be prepared for opportunities

Being ready to take advantage of opportunities is important if you want to operate a business.

That was one of the key messages Aaron Kienle, owner of CAB Clothing in Yorkton had for students attending theTransACTIONS for Youth Conference on Business‏ held in the city Friday.

Kienle said being ready for opportunity was something he learned from his mother, who always believed something was just around the corner. It is something he has held onto.

"I really truly believe there is always opportunity around the corner," he said.

In Kienle's case he started taking advantage of opportunities at a young age, noting at age six "I decided I needed to make an income," and took on a paper route.

"It was the first time I understood putting out work and getting money in return," he said.

What followed was a rather whirlwind trip to business owner for Kienle, working in a skateboard shop by 17, married by 18 and having a child, mortgage and some money in the bank ready to open CAB Clothing when opportunity knocked.

Kienle said that is something he tries to instill in his own children, to put some money away for the day opportunity does arrive.

"It's not money for the PS4. It's saving for the next opportunity," he said.

Kienle said in business truly liking to be around people is important.

"My Dad loved people, cared for them," he said, having established earlier as a child he had learned a lot from his parents just by watching and listening, one of them being how to be a people person.

In business that is a good thing.

"Caring about giving the people what they really need," noted Kienle.

Being a people person also builds a network a person can draw upon when needed.

In business " relationships will carry you through," said Kienle.

Kienle said you also need to be in business for reasons which matter to you.

"Being a business entrepreneur is finding what your passion is In small business it isn't always about the money," he said, adding while he is not averse to profits " the lifestyle is worth way more than the money Make decisions with not only your head but with your heart too."