The McAleenan brothers always knew that they would own and run their own business. They just didn’t realize that it would be before either of them had started their careers working for someone else.

However, as many of you will know, once you have an idea that is worth pursuing it’s hard to let it rest. When Justin and Andrew came up with their concept in late 2009, they realized that they had to go for it.

Seeing a Problem, Finding a Solution

Having both worked in restaurants while attending university, the brothers saw first-hand the challenges that their employers faced when recruiting new employees. And of course, as job seekers themselves, they experienced the issues of obtaining employment as well.

After graduating from university, they took a closer look at the hospitality market and realized that there wasn’t a recruitment solution to fit the unique requirements of the hospitality industry. Yes, there were plenty of online job boards; however, these were built around traditional resumes, which do not always work for this industry.

So they took a step back, and came up with the Sketch: an online employment profile. An online tool built around a social media model.

The Learning Curve

Before starting EightSix Network, the brothers had no experience in running an internet business, so they had a lot to learn in a short amount of time. Justin describes, “When faced with such a steep learning curve, you need to be able to deal with the ups and downs and stay focused on your main goal. You’ve got to learn to go-with-the-flow.”

But their perseverance paid off. In just 2 years, they have over 40,000 users and a strong list of industry-leading clients including Earls Restaurants, The Keg, JOEY Restaurants and Cactus Club Cafe.

Andrew remarks, “We’re really happy that we’ve been able to help so many people find jobs that they enjoy and that we’ve helped a number of great brands streamline one of their most inefficient and costly practices.”

Finding Support

When first starting out their venture the pair needed some guidance, so they came here, to Small Business BC, to attend a number of seminars and events. Justin explains why: “I think it’s important when you are first starting out to meet other entrepreneurs facing the same challenges you do as it puts a lot of what you’re going through in perspective. Plus, you might make a connection that has a significant impact on your business.”

The duo continued their relationship with Small Business BC when they decided to enter the Successful You Awards in 2011. When asked about their experience in taking part in the awards contest, they explain that it provided them with a good measuring stick for them, because they were able to challenge themselves in a number of different areas.

Andrew explains, “The vote-drive portion of the process helped us gauge our social media presence and overall influence, while the written submission allowed us another chance to focus on our strengths and selling points.” The lucky pair was also able to test their pitching skills, when they became a Top 5 Finalist. “Pitching to the judges and fielding questions off-the-cuff while under pressure was a unique experience that many entrepreneurs do not have the opportunity to go through and, as a new business owner, any chance to work on your pitch/presentation skills is an opportunity not to be missed.” And it was an experience that was made even sweeter when on February 28, 2012 they were awarded with the Best Concept Award.

Looking to the Future

So what does the future look like for the EightSix Network? Well the boys are looking at nothing less than becoming the industry standard online recruiting tool for the restaurant and hospitality industries across Canada and, eventually, North America. Lofty goals, but something tells us they’ll make it happen.

As Cecilia Mkondiwa, from Women’s Enterprise Centre and one of the judges for the Best Concept Award last year explains, “It’s one of those concepts that in a few years the target market will wonder how it had survived without it.  It just makes a lot of sense.  It presents what innovation is all about; this business came up with a solution to a common industry problem.  Justin and Andrew have a good strategy and have done a wonderful job of getting the big players on their customer list.  Now that the business has put together a good group of advisors, a passionate management team, a good infrastructure and a solid growth plan, nothing is going to stop the two brothers from enjoying the upcoming success”.

Some Last Advice?

When asked if they have any advice for other entrepreneurs starting out they provide us with four points:

1. Commit. Either fully commit to what you’re trying to achieve or do something else entirely.  Your new business is going to take much more time and effort that even your wildest estimations, but if you’re in the right business and you have done the right preparation, you’ll enjoy every minute of it.
2. Adapt. A key factor in determining the success of your new business venture will be your willingness and ability to adapt. The business environment is dynamic and you are constantly bombarded with new information. You need to quickly assimilate this information and determine how it will affect either a certain strategy you’re using or even your overall business model. Don’t ignore what the market is telling you and be willing to make adjustments.
3. Network. Easily one of the best aspects of starting your own business, networking – if done right – never feels like actual work and can lead to things you’ve never considered. We’ve been surprised at how many great people we’ve met through the various events we’ve attended. There truly is a sense of community amongst entrepreneurs in this province and by attending meet-ups, joining entrepreneur social groups and always being keen to spot an opportunity, you’ll grow your business and have a great time doing it.
4. Play. Set aside time each day to relax and have fun. Working all day and night will get you nowhere. Get outside, exercise and don’t take yourself too seriously. When you do work, you’ll be much more productive. Being an entrepreneur should be fun; if it isn’t, why bother take all the risks?