Episode 69: Chris Schalleur

In this episode of Top 3, Marcia O'Connor, CEO of the O'Connor Group, had a conversation with Chris Schalleur, CEO of Christo IT, a seasoned expert in the IT world with 24 years of experience. They discussed various aspects of entrepreneurship, including Chris's journey into the IT field, lessons learned from his father's entrepreneurial background, and the importance of core values in building a company culture.Chris shared his early exposure to entrepreneurship, growing up in a household where his father ran his own firm. This experience instilled in him the value of being a trusted advisor to clients, which became a cornerstone of his career. They delved into the challenges and mistakes Chris encountered during his entrepreneurial journey. One major lesson learned was the importance of clearly defining and implementing core values within the organization. Chris admitted that his company initially had core values but did not actively incorporate them into their hiring and decision-making processes. He encouraged entrepreneurs to start with stories that resonate with their company's culture when developing core values.The conversation shifted to mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in small businesses. Chris stressed the need to thoroughly understand the financials of the businesses being acquired and the importance of having a clear understanding of the terms and conditions of the deal. He shared a cautionary tale from his experience during 2009, emphasizing the importance of solid financial processes and procedures.Discussing cybersecurity and IT services, Chris emphasized the growing importance of cybersecurity insurance. He advised entrepreneurs to consult with insurance agents to understand their cybersecurity insurance requirements and premiums. Chris also highlighted the evolving nature of the IT industry, where efficiency and communication have become key drivers, especially in the context of remote work.In conclusion, the conversation offered valuable insights for entrepreneurs, from the significance of core values and M&A considerations to the ever-evolving landscape of IT services and cybersecurity. Chris Schalleur's journey and expertise serve as valuable lessons for those navigating the entrepreneurial path.