Amy Barber Terschluse
EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT
PROFESSIONALS
What is your mission?
The mission of Express Employment Professionals is to help people find jobs and our client companies find good employees and to help those clients make those jobs and those employees even better.
What was your first job?
My first job at 16 was working in a Dunkin’ Donuts and an ice cream parlor – would go to Dunkin’ Donuts early Saturday and Sunday morning and then head to the ice cream parlor in the afternoons. I think I gained a few pounds.
What was your worst job?
I didn’t really have any bad jobs. I really liked them all and learned something from each.
What led you to your industry?
My mom and dad actually started our first Express Employment franchise in 1992. I joined them the next year and eventually purchased the business from them eight years ago. My dad and I both had a sales background, and that is what is needed to be successful in this industry. You have to go out every day and talk to clients and help them succeed.
What was the smartest thing your company did in the past year?
In the last year we have expanded our sales team. It has brought us new business and diversified our client base.
How do you differentiate yourselves from your competition?
We are different in many ways. We offer local ownership that is rooted in the community but have the backing of a large international corporation. We offer so many value-added services to our clients that our competition doesn’t. Companies are often surprised to find out everything that we offer and can do to support their businesses.
What’s the hottest trend in your industry, and are you going to jump on board?
More and more companies are using staffing companies to help them find good people for all areas of their company.
What’s the hardest part of your job?
Keeping on top of the government regulations and policies regarding workman’s compensation, unemployment, EEOC and now the Affordable Care Act. They are ever-changing and typically not favorable to small businesses.
What’s the best part?
Finding our clients great people.
What advice would you share with other entrepreneurs?
Try to not get caught up in the minutia. Keep the big picture in your mind. You won’t get there overnight. It is hard work.
What’s your favorite place in St. Louis?
I have lots of favorites, but if my family is with me, then I am happy.
What book is on your nightstand?
I am more of a newspaper and magazine reader. I read the St. Louis Business Journal, Wall Street Journal, St. Louis Post-Dispatch and assorted industry magazines every day.
What has made you successful in your industry and in St. Louis?
I have great people that work within my company. They really are the ones that make our company successful and our clients coming back.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Read, cook, walk my dog in my neighborhood, and spend time with my family and friends. n
Submitted 9 years 95 days ago