Easy talk about business with Jeff Michels
08 March, 2024
Jeff Michels
- CEO of Sierra Nevada Hospitality (Sierra Nevada Hospitality (Hotel Lumberjack, Sonora Inn, Sonora California)
My business idea was born/came on my mind:
Creating Sierra Nevada Hospitality as a consulting firm was conceived in the digital dawn of Kyiv, at a beautiful coworking space Kooperativ, back in 2021. At Kooperative I was introduced to a young hospitality entrepreneur, Vasily Grogol from Bursa Hotel. Vasily helped me to understand the fusion of technology and hospitality and how it can spark the beginning of a luxury experience for guests at the hotel / property level. It was a moment of clarity amidst the chaos, where I saw an opportunity to weave innovation into the fabric of traditional hospitality, creating a tapestry of unforgettable guest journeys.
Useful skill/habit that helps in business/working routine:
The invaluable skill that fuels my entrepreneurial journey is the art of adaptability. In the dynamic landscape of hospitality and technology, being able to pivot, iterate, and embrace change is essential. It's about staying agile in the face of uncertainty, continuously learning and evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of our guests and the industry.
The most important advice that I received in my life (from whom?):
The most pivotal advice I received came from a wise mentor who emphasized the power of perseverance. They instilled in me the belief that success is not determined by the absence of challenges, but by the tenacity to overcome them. It's a lesson that has guided me through the peaks and valleys of entrepreneurship, reminding me to embrace adversity as fuel for growth.
Three main/essential pillars of my business philosophy:
- Innovation: We thrive on pushing the boundaries of possibility, constantly seeking out new technologies and creative solutions to enhance the guest experience.
- Collaboration: We believe in the power of partnerships, fostering synergies between diverse talents and perspectives to drive innovation and growth.
- Empathy: At the heart of everything we do lies a deep empathy for our guests, our team members, and our community. It's about understanding their needs, anticipating their desires, and crafting experiences that resonate on a profound level.
Crisis/critical moments in business and way out/solutions:
In moments of crisis, resilience becomes our greatest asset. Whether facing economic downturns or unforeseen challenges, we approach adversity with a mindset of opportunity. By doubling down on innovation, fostering open communication, and rallying our team around a shared vision, we navigate turbulent waters with grace and emerge stronger than ever.
The best advertisement is:
The best advertisement is not a billboard or a catchy slogan, but a raving fan. When guests become ambassadors for our brand, sharing their exceptional experiences with friends and family, that's when our message resonates most powerfully. It's the authentic storytelling that transcends marketing gimmicks and fosters genuine connections.
Money loves (whom?/what?):
Money loves purpose. When invested with intention and vision, it becomes a catalyst for transformative change. Whether fueling innovation, supporting our team members, or contributing to our community, every dollar carries the potential to create meaningful impact and drive sustainable growth.
My business in 5 years:
In five years, our business will be at the forefront of hospitality innovation, setting new standards for luxury experiences in the digital age. We will have expanded our footprint, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology with unparalleled guest service to create immersive journeys that captivate the senses and inspire the soul.
My inspiration/fulfillment is (in/when):
I find inspiration in the intersection of creativity and technology, where imagination knows no bounds and innovation knows no limits. Whether crafting a seamless guest experience or devising a groundbreaking solution, it's the thrill of pushing the envelope and challenging the status quo that fuels my passion and brings fulfillment to my journey.
Hot technology/product innovation in my business:
The hottest technology innovation in our business is the convergence of artificial intelligence and personalized guest experiences. By harnessing the power of AI-driven insights, we can anticipate guest preferences, tailor services in real-time, and create bespoke experiences that resonate on a deeply personal level.
A question that I would love to hear, so I could fully present/picture my business activity:
I would love to be asked about the transformative impact of our technology-driven initiatives on guest satisfaction and loyalty. It's a question that allows me to showcase how innovation is not just a buzzword, but a tangible force for creating unforgettable moments and fostering lifelong connections with our guests.
My advice for entrepreneurs:
My advice for entrepreneurs is to dream boldly, act courageously, and embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. In the journey of entrepreneurship, there will be obstacles and setbacks, but it's those who persevere with passion and purpose who ultimately realize their vision and leave a lasting legacy.
Rules/Success/Business
The new column “Rules/Success/Business” by the Entrepreneurship and Export Promotion Office expert Valentyna Liashenko will share with you a lot of breathtaking business ideas, advice, and insights from both Ukrainian and worldwide business owners. We will introduce you to the interviews of company owners from different fields and countries.
Easy talk about not easy situations, challenges, and joy from the victory.