05/31/2007
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Mike Abercrombie says he joined NFIB, which he'd known about for five years, "to become more involved in the political process. I would like NFIB to keep me plugged in to local issues." Abercrombie credited an NFIB/Georgia sales representative for convincing him to become part of NFIB's unique grassroots processes. |
Most people start a business because they have a skill or talent that they believe they can sell, or when they are old enough, take over the family business. But not Mike Abercrombie.
He started Elite Lighting Service, Inc., because he had an unknowing passion for lighting. Sure he had the technical expertise as he was already working for an electrical company before stepping out on his own. But truth be known, it was the pretty lights that drew him in. On a flight from Atlanta to Las Vegas, looking out the window that eventful evening, Abercrombie was overpowered and mesmerized by the lights he saw over the landscape and on “The Strip.” How appropriate it is that a company was founded on such wonderment.
NFIB recently spoke with Abercrombie about entrepreneurship, minimum wage and beautiful sunsets.
Describe your business
Electrical contracting, specializing in tenant finish and new construction. Full-service fleet in both electrical and lighting
Essential business philosophy
Customer, customer, customer. It is all about the customer
What business opportunities did you see at the start of your business, and what opportunities exist today?
The opportunity existed for a company with solid, sound principals to enter the marketplace. The construction industry can be tainted, so I thought an honest, prideful company could be successful.
What are your company's strengths, and how do you capitalize on them?
Aggressiveness: Doing what we say we're going to and following through. Accessibility: Our customers are always able to reach us. So many companies in my industry have customers leave messages for them and take their time getting back with them. I find that frustrating so I want my customers to be able to reach us.
What trends are shaping your industry?
Flat-rate pricing. It costs X amount to perform a service vs. X amount for driving, X amount for two hours at the location, etc.
Why do you like being a small-business owner?
It gives me the opportunity to employ others and to offer an enjoyable workplace and future for them.
What would people be surprised to learn about your industry?
The cost involved with training my employees for their positions. It takes about four years before an apprentice can graduate to become an electrical technician.
Definition of success
The day-in, day-out process. Having a place to come and lead others and provide them with opportunities and career paths.
What legislation, either state or federal, is pending that could affect your business?
Minimum wage [increase]. This will continue to raise the cost of doing business, which is then passed on to the customer. I have to compete with backdoor businesses that can maintain low rates because they don't have employees and are operating out of the back of their truck.
What is your No. 1 legislative concern at both the state and federal levels?
State licensing enforcement. The enforcement of penalties and fines on electrical contractors that are doing business without their license. At the federal level, the minimum wage [increase].
How do you stay involved and active in the public-policy process?
I am just starting to become more involved. That's why I joined NFIB: to become more politically active and informed.
How did you first learn about NFIB?
I have known about NFIB since I started this business five years ago, but I never took it upon myself to join. A [salesperson] stopped by and I decided to join.
Why did you join NFIB, and what are your expectations of NFIB?
I joined NFIB to become more involved in the political process. I would like NFIB to keep me plugged in to local issues. I would like to interact with other small-business owners, to network and to make business contacts.
Quick Facts
- Important business lesson learned: Documentation. It's all about the facts and figures and knowing when, where, why and how.
- Education: Associate degree in business from Clayton State University
- Family: Engaged with four children
- Most recent movie watched: 300
- Favorite vacation spot: Fort Myers, Fla. They have the best sunsets.
Elite Lighting Services Inc., Jonesboro
Mike Abercrombie
Business owner since 2002, NFIB member since April 2007
20 employees
