The man who is Paul Fabio today rose through the ashes to emerge as a source of untold inspiration to many. His story carries meaning for those who find it difficult to establish solid businesses in the highly competitive world of auto mechanics.

With 6 kids, one wonders how he still manages to stay afloat. However, when you get the rare chance to get intimate with him, you’ll soon discover his secret: immersing himself in what he loves doing the most and having time for his family. And you don’t have to go far to realize his value to the community he serves. His eldest sons -Michael, Dante and Anthony- idolize him. As a loving and caring father, Paul Fabio spends his weekends in the workshop teaching them the rules of the trade.

“The greatest gift you can give your children is to teach them something,” he muses over a sip of coffee. “Whether it’s to grow flowers, to change a tire, or to rear chickens, teach your children something. It may not make them rich, but they will learn the value of hard work, which ultimately leads to riches.”

His wisdom is plain. Certainly not fit for a mechanic, but it all goes to show that all that work experience he garnered over the years paid off. Working for General Motors at the age of 16 gave him the confidence to break new ground across the industry. The list of renowned brands that have been served well by Paul Fabio is seemingly endless. Ford, Toyota, Mercedes Benz, BMW, you name it. Respect is truly earned.

How did you get started?

My father always encouraged me to break free from a restrictive system that is designed to preserve the wealth of those who’ve made it already. I remember him telling me that they want me working the assembly line and not starting my own manufacturing plant because, then, I’d be a competitor. So that really opened my eyes and I ventured into business with my dad, who has since passed away.

What inspired you?

Being divorced has certainly inspired me to become a better father and to work as hard as possible to support my children and invest into their futures.  My divorce also made me realize that there is far more to life than going crazy about someone who’ll leave you eventually and walk away with half of your life’s hard work. I decided there and then that I would live for a greater purpose and leave a lasting legacy to my kids.

How do you make a living?

I run an auto consultancy for a wide range of car manufacturers.  I help them improve their business which in turn increases their profits. I will go to dealerships sometimes and give them advice and recommendations on how to increase their sales. That can involve anything from the way their floor is laid out to how to close a deal.

How long did it take for you to make profit?

With a lot of hard work and determination, I was extremely fortunate to become profitable in less than two years. Of course, as with most new businesses, along the way I experienced some failures and lost some money.

When you started your consultancy, did you ever doubt that it would work? If so, how did you cope?

I think when anyone starts their own business they have that fear. However, I knew I had the drive to be successful. My faith in God gave me confidence that I would succeed and overcome all adversity that stood in my way.

How did you get your first client?

I approached General Motors and explained to them exactly what I do for a living. With a lot of persistence and effort, it wasn’t long before talking to them did they realize what an asset I would be. After that, the rest is history.

What is your most effective marketing strategy? One that works really well to create new business?

Word of mouth, especially in the automotive industry is huge. There are so many people out there who are just looking to make a buck. Don’t get me wrong, I want to make money, the difference is, I want to help you make money as well. I also try to be as honest and transparent as possible.

What is the hardest decision you’ve had to make recently?

Up-scaling operations. I hardly get to see my children. They are why I do what I do so I have to stop once in a while to make sure I have that quality time with them. It’s just harder to do that now.

What makes you successful?

As I mentioned, I want to help these businesses succeed. They see that, they put their trust in me and they succeed. So, when they succeed I, in turn, am successful. Simply, my success comes from the success of my customers.

What has been your most memorable moment in business?

I would have to say that my most memorable moment in business was my first consultation. It was then that I realized this is what I was meant to do, I was good at it. I realized just how easy it was going to be for me to make real money in this business.

What are you most excited about for the future of your business?

The age of the electric car, for me, is a must see. It’s going to change the dynamics of world commerce. Global warming should be the least of our worries.

Which business books have inspired you?

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. If I had to recommend one book for people to read it would be that one. This book has provided me with so much knowledge, wisdom and hope. In life it is very important to have a “burning desire” in order to truly understand what your purpose is and to chase your dreams.

What is a latest purchase you’ve made that’s helping with your business?

A smartphone. I didn’t realize it at the time just how useful those were. Now, I don’t know how I would conduct my business without it.

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