Small Business Success Story, and what you can learn from it

It's not easy to find a local small business owner who is thriving in today's economy. So when I stumble into one who is excelling, I want to do more than just hear from that person. Then if I find out they are authentic, honest and good, I want to do more than listen. I want to soak in what they have to offer.

Mike Russell, founder and owner of Elite Telecom Services in Kennesaw, Ga., is such a person. Nine years ago, Mike, a University of North Carolina graduate, decided to go into business for himself. After having worked for 18 years behind a desk for a couple of corporations, Mike started Elite Telecom. The best way to describe his business is like this: He's a broker who matches his clients (mid-to-large-size businesses) to one of 35 or so telecom companies. He then serves as that business' contact with whichever carrier they choose, ensuring prompt and thorough customer service. The business saves money on their annual phone bills and gets good customer service. Mike can offer his audits and services free to businesses because he gets paid by the telephone companies. Pretty simple and pretty smart.

But I don't have a T-1 line or hundreds of phone lines. And I don't need Elite Telecom Services. So my interest in Mike is how he made it a success. What he told me impressed me even more. It's all about getting to know people and getting a chance to serve them.

Mike was not a natural at networking nine years ago. Now, he's as good a networker as there is in Atlanta. And here's what I like about building a successful business around networking: You can't pretend to be someone or something that you are not -- at least not for long. How many phonies or frauds would you refer to a friend? Perhaps it could happen by accident once in a while, but when you are relying on referrals, the truth will find you out.

Mike got involved with local businesses and civic groups, and now chairs boards, donates to causes and is a champion for charities, particularly those in the fight against cancer.

"In today's times, you might not be able to write a check as a way to give back to the community," Mike said. "So serve meals at MUST Ministries, run a race, build a playground. Just give of yourself."

Mike was a 2009 finalist for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce Small Business Person of the Year. And it was well deserved. Check him out at elitesvc.com