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Cardmember Profile: WalkerTek

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February 1, 2010

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Business Forecasting 2012

Our special feature on forecasting sheds light on how to choose the right model, offers advice from Jack Stack and more.

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Michael Walker is the CEO of WalkerTek.

I started my own business because…
Control and opportunity. After working for and with advertising agencies, it seemed like everything was always a rush. There had to be a better way. So, WalkerTek has developed systems and processes that keep our clients happy and our employees happier by reducing stress and managing expectations.

My inspiration is…
Other successful businesses, including many of our clients. I try to learn what strategies are working for them.

My favorite customer story or line …
I get calls every few months that go surprisingly similar to this... “I would like to build a Web site that is kind of like Facebook, but better. It will have more features and people will like it more.... I have a few hundred dollars budgeted for it.”

What defines leadership in business…
Trust. Everyone needs to trust you: employees, customers, vendors and partners. Without trust, there’s no loyalty, no respect – and no business.

Best business advice I’ve received…
Stay on top of receivables. And don’t wait too long to get rid of someone who isn’t performing.

My advice to other business owners…
It’s a tremendous amount of work to start and run a successful business, but it can be very rewarding. Don’t think because you have a corporate job you are more secure. Look at how many large companies that you never thought would fail are now gone. As a business owner, you need to love what you do. If you don’t, you will quickly hate it.

I’m most proud of…
Having built our business despite the economy. Last year, our revenues were up 13%.

How OPEN helps my business …
The OPEN Forum is a great place to get information targeted toward small businesses. Also, American Express has been pretty good with our credit line and handling payment inquiries.