Today we had the opportunity to sit down and pick the brain of an emerging leader who has gained a reputation for being one of the go-to experts in the financial strategy arena. Edward Malekan has led EFA as the CEO to a reputable firm that is seen as a trusted and forward-thinking financial firm. We had a chance to learn about his vision for the future, insights about his past and secrets to his success so aspiring entrepreneurs can learn from his accomplishments
What is the story that inspired the name of the company?
Since there is no one person/professional that can truly be a “jack of all trades,” and the large network of professionals on hand, we ongoingly vet and establish alliances between professionals from their respective areas of financial services, bringing their highest level of expertise to best service individuals, families and business owners on a financial level.
“Forever Together Financially”
How has being an entrepreneur affected your life?
As unhealthy as it sounds, initially (the first 10 years), it took over my life whole as business was 24/”8.” As time went on, I became an expert in my field, built a strong network, loyal and appreciative book of business, strong team of advisors and professionals who trust me with their books of business. Now, I’ve become the coach for many and Quarter-Back while in action. My life as an entrepreneur is now: fun, eventful, exciting and different almost day-in and day-out. All those years laying the foundation was well worth the while setting me up for many more thrilling years to come.
What motivates you?
Competition, challenges, my family, seeing people winning in life/business, success and the opportunity to reward myself.
How do you generate new ideas?
Ultimately, I’d like to stay ahead of the curve. Since I work both “in” the business and “on” the business, I take the time to reflect and analyze – always! Both on a micro and macro level, I study historical business trends that succeeded and failed in the past, present and what trends are forming the future. I asses every possibility for better or worse, how all matters could be played and establish strategies that will be able to flow through best and the worse. I get creative and put myself in a position to mauver where we can always be able to provide the most effective, efficient and most innovative strategies on the table.
What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage fear?
I don’t really think about “fear” as it’s something just created by the mind but if I need to bring fear upon myself it’s fear of loss which untimely just motivates me. If we speak of fear that I have no control over is the fear of losing a loved one or the deterring of health.
What are your ideals?
Loyalty, Integrity & Respect
How do you define success?
Success really has no end, because as soon as you think you’ve achieved your goals, the human mind will always trigger you to want and do more. But I believe success could have different meanings and levels to it depending on how far you want your legacy of impact on the lives of others to go.
Do you believe there is some sort of pattern or formula to becoming a successful entrepreneur?
Absolutely. Success leave clues and it’s definitely nothing that cold be spoon-fed.
What is your favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur?
My favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur is where I get to be creative with the projects and the alliances I form with other like-minded professionals, the ability to challenge myself and others on a daily basis to become stronger and deeper. Having the ability to really tell ourselves when it really is enough. Having control of my day to day.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
Conquering the events that were set in place to have me fail.
What do you wish this company to accomplish within the next year?
It’s a secret.
What do you wish this company will accomplish within the next five years?
We will be the ultimate financial weapon every individual, family and business will want to have access to.
What does proper leadership look like to do, what is an example of leadership you have seen that is not proper?
For the aspiring entrepreneur reading this what advice will you give?
Don’t quit on turning your dreams into a reality because once a quitter, always a quitter. If you have a habit of quitting, either quit now or have a serious talk with yourself asking “what would cause me to quit?” If your dreams and goals are not bigger than your excuses, you’re pursuing the wrong mission.
What final words do you have for all of the supporters?
Thank you for putting your trust and faith in me as I’ve always put your best interest before mine. And for those who didn’t trust and believe in me or wished to see me fail, thank you for the motivation.
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