Testimonials
"Opportunity Knocks has been an integral part of our business
since 1996. Our clerical and clinical experience lacked
exposure to the broad skill set necessary to grow a successful
business. Opportunity Knocks filled that void and more. It not
only provides the resources we were missing, but also gave us
the impetus to do the things that make a business strong and
sustainable. Accountability to my OK group members has been the
motivation necessary for me to study, know and plan for our
continued success. It has made me complete those reports and
plans and shown me how to use them as tools to build and
sustain a healthy business. Regular contact and interaction
with other small business owners provides me with a talented
forum for issues from employment to finance. It is not all
one-sided however, OK also provides me an opportunity to help
other business owners and in doing so, help my community to
grow and prosper."
Home Care IV of Bend - Ed Neuman, owner
"OK has kept me in business through my first year as a sole
proprietor in a new city. My group helped me institute
realistic rates, policies and procedures, while the monthly
meeting structure served to keep me on a schedule. The group
helps clarify the steps I need to take and prioritize my tasks
during this sometimes-overwhelming start-up phase. Every month,
even if I'm not the focus of the group's attention, I come away
with good ideas to make my business more efficient and more
profitable. The member's combined business experiences, advice
and continuing presence has kept me IN BUSINESS for
myself."
Graphic Perspective - Carol Smiley, owner
"I purchased my business in 1997. Being my first business and
relatively new to Central Oregon, I found limitations in
obtaining sound business advice. I found exactly what I was
looking for in 1999 when I was made aware of
Opportunity Knocks. I now have eleven advisors/consultants
that have assisted me in many areas. They have helped me with
decisions from employee issues, technical automation, marketing
plans, sales techniques, business expansion, partnership
options for employees, cash flow and personal time management.
We not only address issues, but the group is committed to hold
everyone accountable for the action the members have pledged.
It is impossible to stress how important, I might add
critical, OK has been in the development of my business, but
also the peace of mind it has given me knowing I have an
advisory board just a phone call away."
Deschutes Insurance Marketplace - Vic
Martinez, owner
"Attending my Opportunity Knocks monthly "board meetings"
for the past three years is time well spent for many
reasons:
1. Our board holds me accountable in setting obtainable sales
goals and reviewing my results weekly. Result: My business
through this process will increase 20-25% this year.
2. Guest Speakers help to clarify and direct my business
decisions in an unbiased atmosphere. Result: I have recently
changed my bookkeeper and CPA.
3. Our board and group facilitator reminds me to pay honest
attention to my personal goals, dreams and visions. Result: I
married my partner of three years and will take my first
two-week vacation in years.."
Sportsvision Bend - Roberta Johnson, owner
"The quality and quantity of the help that I have received from
Opportunity Knocks is almost immeasurable. There are many
specific measurable examples. The recent Procedure Manual that
I was required to produce is one such example. The group held
me to my promise to get this project started and helped me be
accountable for it. Being a sole proprietor, I often miss the
accountability to partners or managers. More than the concrete
quantifiable aspects of OK are the intrinsic values that they
help me and my business with. It affords me a sounding board
for my ideas and support for the work that I am doing to grow
my business. The thought that the information and knowledge
which I bring to the table can actually help someone else gives
me a great sense of pride and accomplishment. I have become a
much better listener and observer and these things have all
helped with both my business growth as well as my own personal
development."
ECO-SCAPES - Ed Bartz, owner
"OK has provided me with a group of very diverse business
owners who bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to
individual group settings which has assisted me as well as my
fellow business owners in making decisions in all aspects of
building a business as well as immediate problem
solving."
Precise Flight Inc. - Connie LeHuquet,
owner
"Cascade Bookkeeping is an open book management company, with
our employees heavily involved in helping manage the business.
We do not lack for internal energy or perspective, but our OK
group has added the missing dimension - an outside perspective
from other business owners. As a member since OK began, I
cherish the openness and directness of the interaction between
businesses. Our planning, our structure and our profitability
are improved as a result."
Cascade Bookkeeping - Bill Friedman, owner
