In a world where challenges and opportunities go hand in hand, the experiences lived and shared by those who have paved paths of success are beacons of light that guide others in their journeys. Aristides Maza-Duerto is one of those beacons with his vast experience of 18 years at the heart of business and education in the United States. As President of Millennia Atlantic University and speaker at the Networking Doral event of ABN (American Business Networking), Maza-Duerto has shared lessons of invaluable worth, the fruit of his trajectory, and challenges faced in the competitive American landscape.
This article aims not only to highlight the key moments and teachings of Maza-Duerto’s presentation but also to explore how his experiences and advice can be applied by entrepreneurs, educators, and anyone interested in personal and professional development. Through his words, we will delve into crucial topics such as the importance of proper immigration status, tax responsibility, talent management, cultural adaptation, effective networking, and the cornerstone of every successful business: customer service.
Join us on this journey through the life and business lessons in the US according to Aristides Maza-Duerto, an 18-year voyage that condenses not just the know-how in the business realm but also the wisdom to navigate the complexities of a new culture and legal system. These are stories of adaptation, perseverance, and, above all, success; stories that inspire us to look beyond obstacles and see each challenge as an opportunity to grow.
The Importance of Immigration Status in Business
Navigating the Waters of Immigration Legislation
Aristides Maza-Duerto begins his story with a fundamental lesson that goes beyond any specific business strategy: the crucial importance of immigration status for those looking to embark on entrepreneurship in the United States. This first stepping stone in the entrepreneurial journey is often underestimated, which can lead to complicated situations and, in some cases, the impossibility of continuing to operate a business.
The First Obstacle: Underestimation
The initial mistake many make, according to Maza-Duerto, is thinking they can apply the same practices and regulations from their home countries in the United States. Arriving with a tourist visa, for example, is a clear misunderstanding of the immigration regulations that allow opening a business but restrict the possibility of receiving a salary. The situation becomes even more complicated when the entrepreneur’s family gets caught in an “eternal vacation” due to these limitations.
Learning from Others’ Experiences
Maza-Duerto emphasizes the difficulties faced by the Venezuelan and Colombian diasporas, who come to him for advice when time is pressing, and options are narrowing. The story repeats itself: a lack of preparation and ignorance of the US immigration system lead to stressful situations and rushed decisions.
Strategies to Ensure the Correct Immigration Status
Maza-Duerto’s recommendation is clear: ensure that the immigration status is in total concordance with the business needs and objectives. This implies, first, a deep understanding of immigration laws, and second, meticulous planning that contemplates all possible scenarios.
Seeking Competent Advice
Given the complexity of the immigration system, Maza-Duerto advises seeking specialized legal counsel. The experience of other entrepreneurs and the recommendation of competent lawyers or paralegals can be decisive. The goal is to resolve any immigration issues legally and proactively, thus avoiding consequences that could be fatal for the business.
Final Reflections
The lesson Maza-Duerto imparts is not only a warning about immigration challenges but also an invitation to informed and conscious action. Immigration status is the foundation upon which the American dream is built for many foreign entrepreneurs. Ignoring this reality or underestimating its importance can lead to an abrupt and unfortunate awakening. The key to success lies in preparation, adaptation, and, above all, in seeking expert advice to guide the way in this complex environment.
Assuming Tax Responsibilities in the US
Understanding the US Tax Landscape
One of the most challenging, yet vital, aspects for any entrepreneur in the United States is managing tax obligations. Aristides Maza-Duerto points out a common mistake among immigrant entrepreneurs: the tendency to underestimate or misinterpret the country’s tax laws. The erroneous belief that tax practices from their home country are transferable to the US can lead to serious legal and financial complications.
Uncle Sam’s Revelation
Maza-Duerto uses the figure of “Uncle Sam” to personify the US tax authority, highlighting the inexorability of its requirements. In the US, evading tax responsibilities can have more severe consequences than in many other countries, including prison sentences. This point underscores the critical importance of complying with all tax obligations.
The Search for a Competent Accountant
Given the complexity of the US tax system, Maza-Duerto strongly advises hiring a professional and competent accountant. This professional can not only help navigate the labyrinth of tax laws but also take advantage of potential benefits and deductions for small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as entrepreneurs. The correct choice of an accountant is not just an investment in the company’s financial health but also a protection against possible tax violations.
We Are Not All Accountants
The speaker highlights an uncomfortable but necessary truth: being a successful entrepreneur does not equate to being an expert in accounting. Many immigrant entrepreneurs may have accounting experience in their home countries, but the standards and practices in the United States can be significantly different. Recognizing the need for professional and specialized advice in this area is crucial for the long-term success of the business.
Costly Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Maza-Duerto emphasizes the dangers of poor tax management, including the temptation to inflate the payroll with family members who do not actively contribute to the business. These types of practices, while they may be common in other contexts, are unsustainable and potentially illegal in the US. Transparency, integrity, and compliance are essential to maintaining a healthy and growing business.
Final Thoughts on Tax Obligations
The section concludes with a reflection on the need for adaptation and continuous learning in the US business context. Understanding and assuming tax responsibilities is not only a legal duty but also an expression of an entrepreneur’s maturity and seriousness. The experiences shared by Aristides Maza-Duerto illuminate the path toward responsible tax management, emphasizing that business success in the United States is inseparable from a solid understanding and compliance with tax laws.
Talent Management and Labor Relations
In the complex fabric of business success, talent management emerges as one of the fundamental pillars. Aristides Maza-Duerto, with his profound knowledge and experience accumulated over 18 years in the United States, highlights the relevance of cultivating and maintaining solid labor relations. This section delves into how good practices in this area not only avoid conflicts but also foster a productive and harmonious work environment.
The Challenge of Finding and Retaining Talent
Maza-Duerto begins this part of his presentation by referring to the intrinsic difficulty of finding qualified personnel, especially in critical sectors like healthcare in Florida. This situation has been exacerbated in recent years, when the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the labor landscape, increasing competition for qualified talent and, with it, the salaries offered.
The Invaluable Value of Human Relations
The presentation underscores the importance of human relations in the process of recruiting and retaining employees. Maza-Duerto shares how, through connections and networks built over the years, it has been possible to overcome the obstacles imposed by the market. Trust and mutual respect are presented as valuable currencies, capable of opening doors and facilitating beneficial agreements for all parties involved.
Effective Strategies for Talent Management
Finding the balance between offering competitive salaries and maintaining the financial sustainability of the business is just the beginning. Maza-Duerto emphasizes the need to go further, investing in the professional development of employees, fostering an inclusive and fair work environment, and recognizing the individual value of each collaborator. These practices not only help attract talent but also encourage loyalty and long-term commitment.
Navigating the Waters of Labor Legislation
The legal aspect of labor relations is no less important. Maza-Duerto warns about the risks of not complying with current labor regulations, including those related to hiring, wage payment, and working conditions. Ignoring these laws can result in costly lawsuits and fines, irreparably damaging the business’s reputation. Therefore, he suggests hiring human resources experts to ensure compliance with all legal obligations.
Building a Future Together
Finally, the section concludes with a reflection on the importance of seeing employees not just as resources but as partners in the entrepreneurial journey. Maza-Duerto encourages entrepreneurs to build labor relations based on respect, transparency, and collaboration. By doing so, the foundations for a strong organizational culture capable of facing challenges and seizing opportunities are created.
Talent management, according to Aristides Maza-Duerto, is much more than a simple administrative function; it’s the art of weaving relationships that enhance personal and business growth. In a world where talent is as precious as it is scarce, learning to cultivate these relationships is indispensable for any leader aspiring to sustained success.
Corporate Culture and Adaptation
Adapting to a new business culture is a challenge that many immigrants face when starting a business in the United States. Aristides Maza-Duerto, through his personal and professional experience, highlights the importance of this adaptation as a critical factor for success in a diverse and competitive business environment. This section explores how understanding and respecting cultural differences can be competitive advantages in the business world.
Cultural Adaptation: A Bridge to Success
Maza-Duerto shares anecdotes from his own experience and how cultural adaptation was essential for his integration and success in the American business realm. From understanding the value of time to appreciating communication norms in the workplace, each aspect of business culture in the US presents opportunities to learn and grow.
The Importance of Intercultural Communication
One of the key points Maza-Duerto emphasizes is the importance of effective intercultural communication. Misunderstandings can be common when cultural differences are ignored, but at the same time, understanding these differences can strengthen relationships with colleagues, clients, and partners. The ability to communicate effectively in a multicultural environment not only improves the workplace atmosphere but also opens doors to new business opportunities.
Cultural Mistakes: Lessons Learned
Maza-Duerto does not shy away from discussing the mistakes made along his journey, acknowledging that each cultural error was a valuable lesson. He recounts, for example, how his attempt to transfer customs from his home country to the US workplace taught him the importance of cultural sensitivity. These mistakes, far from being merely obstacles, became powerful lessons in adaptation and respect.
Strategies for Successful Adaptation
To successfully navigate the American business culture, Maza-Duerto suggests several strategies:
– Continuous Education: Maintain a constant learning attitude about the country’s cultural and business norms.
– Mentorship: Seeking mentors with experience in bridging business cultures can provide invaluable guidance.
– Empathy: Practicing empathy and respect for cultural differences fosters an inclusive and productive work environment.
Culture as a Competitive Advantage
Concluding this section means highlighting how cultural adaptation is not only crucial for avoiding missteps in a new business environment but can also become a competitive advantage. Maza-Duerto’s ability to navigate and respect cultural diversity has allowed him to build solid relationships and open new business opportunities. His experience underlines that, in today’s globalized world, the ability to adapt to and value different cultures is essential for any entrepreneur seeking success in the US and beyond.
Networking and Competition
In Aristides Maza-Duerto’s journey toward business success in the United States, one lesson stands out for its strategic importance: managing networking relationships and healthy competition. This section examines how establishing a strong network and maintaining constructive relationships with competitors can be catalysts for growth and survival in the competitive US market.
The Power of Effective Networking
Maza-Duerto emphasizes that networking is not merely an act of socialization; it’s an essential business strategy. He recounts how, in times of crisis, his network proved invaluable. A clear example was when his institution faced an accreditation challenge, and, thanks to previously established relationships, they were able to find quick and effective solutions by collaborating with other universities. This episode illustrates the potential of networking to provide critical support in times of need.
Maintaining Positive Relationships with Competitors
Maza-Duerto’s approach to competition challenges the traditional notion of business rivalry. He argues that a healthy relationship with competitors can be mutually beneficial. He shares experiences where cooperation among direct competitors facilitated solutions to common problems, reinforcing the idea of “today for me, tomorrow for you.” This philosophy promotes a business ecosystem where one’s success contributes to the general well-being of the sector.
Strategies for Effective Networking
– Active participation in industry events: Maza-Duerto stresses the importance of attending and participating in industry-related events, such as conferences and networking meetings, where valuable connections can be forged.
– Contributing to the business community: Offering knowledge, resources, or time to the community can establish a reputation for leadership and generosity, attracting others to your network.
– Using digital platforms: In the digital age, platforms like LinkedIn are powerful tools for staying connected with colleagues and competitors, allowing the sharing of achievements, challenges, and opportunities.
Competition as a Stimulus for Innovation
Far from viewing competition as a threat, Maza-Duerto sees it as a stimulus for continuous improvement and innovation. Businesses capable of observing and learning from their competitors can identify opportunities to differentiate and add value to their offerings. This mindset turns competition into a driving force for the development of better practices and innovative services.
A Collaborative Business Ecosystem
In conclusion, Maza-Duerto demonstrates that effective networking and a constructive perspective on competition are key elements for navigating the US business environment. These relationships not only offer safety nets in times of crisis but also open doors to new opportunities for collaboration and growth. Ultimately, business success, according to Maza-Duerto, is based on the ability to build a business ecosystem where collaboration, innovation, and mutual respect prevail over rivalry.
Customer Service as the Cornerstone
Aristides Maza-Duerto’s business philosophy is founded on a principle he considers essential: excellence in customer service. This section highlights how careful and personalized customer attention is not only a moral duty to the consumer but also a smart business strategy that can differentiate a company in the saturated US market.
The Importance of the First Contact
Maza-Duerto shares his conviction that every interaction counts, especially the first one. He emphasizes the difference between simply informing the customer they are wrong and taking the time to explain and guide. This approach, he argues, not only solves the problem at hand but also strengthens the customer-company relationship, fostering loyalty and trust.
Beyond “The Customer is Always Right”
Maza-Duerto’s strategy goes beyond the adage “the customer is always right.” He acknowledges that while the customer may not always be correct, it’s crucial to address each situation with respect and understanding. This empathetic attitude ensures that, even in disagreements, the customer feels valued and heard, which is fundamental for maintaining a satisfied and loyal customer base.
Personalization and Attention to Detail in Service
One of the aspects highlighted by Maza-Duerto is the personalization of customer service. He exemplifies this practice by remembering birthdays or important dates for the customer, such as sending personal details that demonstrate attention and care. Such gestures, although they may seem minor, significantly contribute to a positive customer experience, differentiating the company in a competitive market.
Competitiveness in Customer Service
In a business environment as competitive as that of the United States, Maza-Duerto asserts that customer service is one of the few areas where a company can truly stand out. In a world where products and services are often perceived as commodities, the quality and warmth of the service can be a decisive factor for a customer to choose one company over another.
Building Long-term Relationships
Maza-Duerto’s view on customer service focuses on building long-term relationships. It’s not just about solving problems or making sales but about cultivating meaningful connections with each customer. This approach not only improves customer retention but also promotes positive word of mouth, which is invaluable for business growth.
The Heart of Business Success
Concluding this section means highlighting how a commitment to exceptional customer service is, according to Maza-Duerto, the heart of business success. In an era dominated by technology and fast transactions, the humanization of customer service emerges as a powerful distinguishing feature. Companies that adopt this philosophy not only gain customers but create loyal brand ambassadors, ensuring their prosperity in the competitive business landscape of the United States and beyond.
Conclusion
Throughout this thorough analysis of the lessons taught by Aristides Maza-Duerto, it’s clear that the path to business success in the United States is both challenging and enriching. The experiences shared and advice offered by Maza-Duerto serve not only as a guide for navigating complex migratory and fiscal environments but also as a reminder of the importance of human relationships in the world of business.
From the crucial management of immigration status to cultural adaptation, through the wisdom of carefully handling fiscal responsibilities, human talent, and relationships with the competition, to the art of providing exceptional customer service, Maza-Duerto’s teachings cover the fundamental pillars upon which sustained success is built.
This 18-year journey through the American business landscape reveals that beyond strategies and business models, the human factor plays a decisive role. The ability to adapt, learn, and cultivate positive relationships not only with customers but also with employees and competitors, makes the difference between merely surviving and truly thriving in such a competitive market.
Maza-Duerto’s final message is one of hope and perseverance. Through his own story of successes, challenges, and learning, he reminds us that success is possible with the right preparation, an open attitude toward continuous learning, and an unwavering commitment to the values that define good business ethics. These lessons, beyond mere advice, are universal principles that can guide entrepreneurs and business leaders at any stage of their professional and personal development.
In summary, Aristides Maza-Duerto‘s presentation at the ABN Networking Doral event offers a comprehensive look at what it means to undertake and lead successfully in the United States. It invites us to reflect on our business practices and consider how we can incorporate these valuable lessons into our entrepreneurial journeys, not just to achieve our commercial goals, but also to positively contribute to the communities and markets in which we operate. Success, according to Maza-Duerto, is within reach of those willing to adapt, learn, and above all, serve.
Call to Action
After this journey through the life and business lessons of Aristides Maza-Duerto, it’s time to look forward and contemplate how we can apply these learnings in our own business and personal contexts. The shared wisdom is not just to be admired but acted upon. Therefore, we invite you to consider the following steps as your call to action:
1. Personal and Professional Reflection
Take a moment to reflect on areas of your business or professional career that could benefit from the shared lessons. Are there aspects of your immigration, fiscal, or human resources management that need review? How can you improve your customer service?
2. Continuous Education
Learning is an endless journey. Seek additional resources, courses, workshops, or seminars that allow you to delve deeper into the discussed topics. Understanding American business culture, immigration and fiscal legislation, and best practices in customer service can be crucial to your success.
3. Expand Your Network
Inspired by the importance of networking, commit to expanding your network of contacts. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media or professional platforms like LinkedIn, and don’t underestimate the value of a good conversation. Remember, relationships built on mutual respect and genuine interest can open unexpected doors.
4. Consult with Experts
If you recognize areas where your knowledge is limited, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Whether you need an accountant, an immigration lawyer, or a business practices mentor, investing in expertise can save you time and resources in the long run.
5. Implementation of Improvements
Identify at least one concrete action you can take in the short term to improve some aspect of your business or professional development. Whether it’s enhancing your customer service approach, reviewing your fiscal structure, or improving your networking strategy, the first step is always the most important.
6. Share Your Learnings
Finally, don’t keep these learnings to yourself. Share with colleagues, friends, and your professional network the lessons you’ve found useful. Just as Aristides Maza-Duerto has shared his experiences for the benefit of others, you too can contribute to the growth and development of your community.
This call to action is not just a set of tasks; it’s an invitation to embark on a path of continuous growth, adaptation, and success. The life and business lessons from Aristides Maza-Duerto remind us that, beyond specific strategies, it’s our commitment to learning, excellence, and community that truly defines our path in the business world. Are you ready to take the next step?
Transcript:
People always ask me what I’ve learned in the last 18 years working in the United States. The first thing I’ve learned is that if someone had told me 18 years ago everything I was going to experience to go to a university, I wouldn’t have believed it.
Sometimes, ignorance is bliss, but it also leads to serious mistakes, especially in this country, because mistakes here cost money. One of the main mistakes is thinking we can do things as we did in our country and start acting the same way. We make the first mistake. We arrive here with a tourist visa thinking, “Oh, I have six months, I have time.” We forget that with a tourist visa, while you can open a company and work, you cannot draw a salary. Your children and family cannot attend university or school. So, you have the family like on an eternal vacation while you work. Then, a moment comes when your six months are up, and you have to leave in a hurry.
But now, what do I do? Is it impossible to work in this country if your immigration status isn’t suitable for carrying out your business? My first recommendation is to ensure that the immigration status you have matches the time you need to be here and the activities you need to perform. This is the first mistake of all immigrants.
I’ve seen it with the Venezuelan diaspora and I constantly see it with the Colombian diaspora. They come to my office two months, two weeks before their tourist visa expires, and ask me, “And now what do I do?” “Well, first, leave.” “No, I can’t leave. I have the kids in school.” But mom, your children are citizens; they’re not in the US as if they were tourists.
And there you see two problems: because the system already knows that your children, who are tourists, are in the educational system, which is a violation of the immigration system, and you’re already flagged and can’t leave easily. Or if you leave the country, when you return, immigration will see that your children were enrolled in the educational system. So, people make those kinds of mistakes, thinking we can do what we did in another country and then we’ll see how we resolve it.
Some things don’t have an easy solution, so make sure your immigration status is suitable for carrying out your business. Otherwise, get good advice, and look for a lawyer or a paralegal who knows what they’re doing. Find among your collaborators and friends someone who has resolved their immigration issue and resolve yours legally first, because otherwise, you’ll have to leave and you won’t know when you can return. You have a company here and you’re not here. In my country, they say that cattle fatten under the owner’s eye, and you, in Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina, Peru, Chile, or Ecuador, are remote controlling. How are you going to run your company? I’ve seen thousands of cases of people who have had to leave and wait two years to return, and when they return, they don’t find their company.
So, that’s the first one. The second also has to do with a way of doing business that’s typical of us Latinos, which is ignoring formalities. We don’t advise ourselves well, we believe that taxes are not a concern. “I didn’t pay taxes in Colombia, why would I pay them here?” and in Venezuela, “What taxes?”. Here there’s someone called Uncle Sam who expects you to report your earnings.
Believe me, you can commit a crime and maybe escape justice, but here people go to jail for not paying their taxes faster than for committing homicide. So, get a good accountant. Talk to your colleagues, to the person next to you. Ask who does their accounting.
Are you a business owner? You’re not an accountant. You might have accounting knowledge, but the accounting standards in this country are not the same. The second mistake we make is thinking we can run a company here ignoring the rules of the game, and one of the main rules is taxes.
A good accountant can help you do your taxes legally and benefit from all the opportunities the US government offers to small and medium businesses, and to new entrepreneurs, to pay less taxes. But you have to get good advice. It’s not about having your wife, your son, your four brothers, your uncle, yourself, your godfather, all on the payroll.
Well, I’m not an accountant, I don’t know if that works here. Go and ask an accountant. Get well advised. It’s always good to have a good human resources lawyer. People make the mistake of thinking that hiring here is easy. Here you hire someone, and the next day they might not come back. It’s not that there are no rules; there are, and many. There are specific ways you have to pay employees, deductions that must be made, forms that must be filled out to maintain your employees. The worst thing that can happen to you is that an employee sues you because going to trial can cost you $50,000 just to defend yourself.
My brother, who is here behind me, always reminds me that I am very good-natured, as they say in my country, I spend all day saying: “Hello, my little friend, how are you, skinny?”. Gentlemen, do not call people “skinny”, “chubby”, or “blackie”, because that here can have fatal consequences from the point of view of discrimination and can lead to a lawsuit. I repeat it can cause you many problems.
I, very young, returned to work for the first time at Chase Manhattan Bank and came up with the brilliant idea of hugging my boss and kissing her on the cheek one day when I arrived a little late to the office. My boss, who was Hindu, complained about that. Half an hour later, the Human Resources department called me, sat me down, and said: “Look, we understand that you come from another culture, but here there are no kisses or hugs; a handshake, and nothing more.
They are different cultures, and often in Miami too. Since we are very Latino and almost everyone is Latino, we tend to form those kinds of groups, as I call them. It’s important to know the rules, understand them, and know what they are. Why? Because a lawsuit can immediately put you out of business.
Finally, my last piece of advice: be consistent in what you do. Respect your customer, protect your customer. And while the customer isn’t always right, it’s crucial to know how to treat the first customer because it’s not the same as telling a customer “Look, you’re not right. What you’re telling me isn’t so,” as to explain things patiently. People understand much better when explained to calmly. Saying “Please, get out of my office, I don’t want to see you,” or “I’m not going to pay you,” are attitudes that also lead nowhere because, in the end, the customer has many options and you’re not the only one doing business.
This country is very competitive, and I can assure you that in what you do, there may be thousands of other companies that do exactly the same and possibly do it as well as you. We have to focus on consumer service and customer care. Know your customer, know them well, and see what their needs are. As I say to our friend, remember their birthday.
For example, send a box of chocolates or flowers to the wife on Mother’s Day. All these things, which at the end of the day could be seen as an expense, are keeping a customer. Last week I turned 52, thank you, and in my mail, I received congratulations emails from my bank, my four credit cards, and people I don’t know who are, from LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. Why? Because for me, wow! They are taking me into account. We appreciate those things as customers and consumers. Thank you very much for your time. I hope you have an excellent day and that my recommendations help you be successful in your work.
A few months ago, as CEO, I heard something similar to what I just mentioned now, but we don’t want to stop here. There’s still time to keep learning and asking. Ok, ready. So, if there’s any question, go ahead, my friend Big Brother. Thank you, dear Alistair, I want to congratulate you for such a concise explanation.
I think the points you’ve covered are very important, especially taking care of your customers. More than a question, it’s a comment. Thank you. Perfect. Excellent. I’ve noticed that too. I think it’s important to complement what your brother Fabio always reminds us: it’s not just about going out to sell. Your presentation wasn’t just about sales, but it was impeccable and you touched on very important points that we, as Latino immigrants, bring with us and sometimes try to develop in the wrong way.
So, congratulations, you’ve touched on all the points and I would like to have more conversations with you whenever you want. Ok? Can I ask a question? Yes, go ahead, sir. Aristides, good morning, and thank you again. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us. Jeff, what you’ve achieved in 18 years is phenomenal. Thank you. I wanted to ask you about the importance of relationships. Did you have difficult moments as we all have had? Could you talk a little about the importance of relationships?
We made it, yes. I’m going to tell you something: although I wouldn’t have opened a university if I had known what I know today 18 years ago, it’s also true that during those 18 years, we got to where we are because we could generate a group of relationships and a circle of people and advisors who supported us when we needed it most.
Networking is key. About eight years ago, our accreditation went into crisis, and we had to rush to find other universities that would give us, so to speak, a letter stating they accepted our students and considered us a quality university. If it hadn’t been for the relationships we had at that time, we wouldn’t have been able to achieve that.
I’m not talking about going to your competitor, sitting down with them face to face, and saying, “Give me a letter of good faith and help me, because if you don’t help me, tomorrow I’m closed.” It’s important to maintain a good relationship with your competition. We’re in the same business, it’s true, but you don’t know when you can be the salvation of your competition or when your competition can be your salvation.
Competing isn’t bad; what’s bad is getting into conflicts with your competition and doing things that possibly don’t benefit you in any way because, in the end, the boomerang comes back. Today for me, tomorrow for you. If today I sabotage my competitors to make them fall, possibly they will do the same in the future.
Relationships are fundamental. Why? For example, finding staff is extremely difficult, especially today in the health sector in Florida. In the last three or four years, we’ve experienced a total change in all our staff; 90% of those who worked with us before the pandemic are no longer with us. Only through the relationships we have regenerated over the years have we been able to find replacements. We’ve invested between $5,000 and $10,000 in staff searches, and it takes three or four months to find anyone. How have we found them? The reason is that the education market is very, but very restricted. There’s no qualified staff available, and the salaries that must be offered to employees have increased dramatically.
For example, the average salary has gone up by 20%. Those who earned $55,000 four years ago are now earning $70,000. Therefore, this increase has made the market very competitive. During the pandemic, many people left the state, many left the Miami area, relocated elsewhere, and are no longer here. Therefore, the market has contracted significantly, especially in key areas of administration.
So, what happens? Through the good relationships we’ve maintained with our competition, we’ve managed to get replacements for the positions we have, without taking anything from anyone, without stealing employees from anyone, and without creating animosity with any of our competitors. But this has been achieved through maintaining good relationships.