Consultant Profile: Martin Goodman (M.G.), Business Consultant, Beaufort Area SBDC, Start Date: July 31, 1992 This edition of the SC SBDC newsletter profiles Martin Goodman, a consultant with the Beaufort Area SBDC. For many of you reading this article, Martin Goodman requires no introduction. He is best known for his role as the former director of the USC Region, where he served with distinction for 11 years. Upon his departure last year, Michele Abraham had this to say about Goodman’s leadership and lasting contributions to the SBDC: “Martin thrived on finding innovative ways to galvanize the USC region and was utterly devoted to his clients. Fortunately, Martin will continue providing outstanding service as Area Manager and business consultant at the Beaufort Area SBDC.” The following interview with Martin provides a bit more insight as to why he thrives as a business consult. Question.: What motivated you to become an SC SBDC consultant? M.G.: I had just sold my small business and was teaching small business classes at the local technical college when the SBDC position became available. Having asked the SBDC consultants to come and speak to my students about SBDC services I was aware of the services the program provided. I have a special interest in seeing entrepreneurs realizing their dreams and becoming successful so the SBDC was a great fit for me and has been for over 26 years.

Question: Do you have a particular area of interest/expertise that you offer clients? M.G.: I work with clients in all stages of their business, from start-up to growth. Recently I have been working with a great deal of clients who are interested in purchasing a small business. Most of my business experience has been centered in retail and service so those are areas I am familiar with.

Question: Based on your experience, what is the best piece of advice you would offer aspiring business owners? M.G.: Know something about the business and industry you plan to own. Having industry knowledge is an important piece of a new business owner’s success. Also be prepared for issues and problems to pop up, it will happen. Part of the fun of owning a business should be working through these problems as they arise, It’s part of their growing knowledge and being successful.

Question: Since becoming an SBDC consultant, what is your greatest accomplishment/what are you most proud of?

M.G.: Having been an SBDC consultant in a small town for a long time has provided me with the opportunity to work with many great people. It’s fun and rewarding when an old time client stops you in a store and tells you that they are still happy to own their business and thanks me for my assistance to them. The referrals from my clients are great as well.