Do what others can’t or won’t do and you’ll succeed in life.
Name: Robert Livingstone
Age: 26
What exactly do you do for a living?
I am the President and Founder of a national merchant consultancy named Ideal Cost. Our website is www.IdealCost.com.
What state do you represent? Florida
Did you go to college? Where? I graduated from Florida Atlantic University (FAU).
What did you study there?
I anticipated becoming and English teacher so I studied English Literature and minored in Women’s Studies.
Why on earth did you choose this career path and how did you get involved in it?
At the age of 23 I was looking for a sales position online and found an advertisement for credit card processing agents. I worked at this particular employer for a year and preferred to be my own boss and act as an advocate for merchants.
What are your future plans for your career?
We plan to grow our presence to more volume on the West Coast of the country and to continue building. Down the line we may look into adding other industries to our consulting offering.
What are you in love with in with about this profession? What are you not so in love with?
I am in love with the efficiency and technology of the industry. Merchants are able to be paid in a timely manner for goods and services. I am not thrilled about the lack of transparency and the many tricks that this industry offers.
Give us an example of a day in the life of you doing what you do?
Every day is pretty similar. I come to the office, review operations and strive to streamline our services in a way to show more value to our clients. I also like to personally call all of our clients to ensure their satisfaction. They seem to greatly appreciate it.
What steps do you recommend to someone who is planning to pursue this career?
Think very hard, there are very few industries with more turnover than credit card processing. Do your due diligence on the products, services, and company you choose to represent.
What is the single-most important piece of advice you can offer a person pursuing this career?
Learn to appreciate rejection.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
Don’t work for anyone else.
What can we look forward to seeing from you next?
We will plan to do more corporate givebacks with select non-profit entities and causes around the country.
What professional or community volunteer organizations are you currently a member of?
I belong to Business Network International, The Chamber of the Palm Beaches, The Palms West Chamber of Commerce, and volunteer on a regular basis.
What’s a funny or significant memory from your college or high school days you are legally allowed to share?
Collectively, employers told me that I had great vision and leadership skills, but made a horrible employee. They essentially suggested that I was not hirable and should start my own business.
What book are you reading right now?
Fish! by Stephen Lundin.
What’s playing in your MP3 player right now?
An assortment of Nirvana songs.
Where can we stalk you online?
Facebook Fanpage: Ideal Cost
Twitter: http://twitter.com/idealcost
Website: www.IdealCost.com
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