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 previous 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, previous 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, co-owner
