The idea of changing careers to follow one’s passion is something most of us have considered but not had the guts to achieve. One entrepreneur who has proven himself as a business and community leader is Sean Seshadri; a former medical student switched careers by becoming a financial expert. Initially trying to build his portfolio, Seshadri built a career so successful he has become a sought-after public speaker for academic institutions and top traders on Wall Street.
He began his life aiming to follow a very different career path as a medical doctor. Only after completing his studies at the world-renowned Weill Medical School at Cornell University did the physician decide to focus on his career as an investment specialist. After building his medical practice, Seshadri believed the time was right to consider his future by investing in the financial markets. After growing frustrated with the slow progress made by a brokerage company, Seshadri took control of his finances and has been successful ever since.
How did you get started in this business? What inspired you to start this business?
I had begun building a medical practice and was interested in developing my investment portfolio. What confused me was the fact I was being told the financial markets were bullish but I wasn’t seeing that reflected in statements from my broker. Eventually, I decided to take control of my finances and began educating myself on the Forex and Futures markets. My inspiration was to provide a secure future for my family.
How do you make money?
I have established some companies trading in a traditional way across different markets. We make money by trading on behalf of our clients and receiving fees for our success. I write blogs and use my social media accounts which have proven very successful.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
I began my research into different markets and took control of my finances a few months later. I began seeing sizeable profits almost immediately after a few setbacks. My companies are all in profit, but I’d say we were in profit after one year.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
You must remember I was entering a new sector and found myself filled with doubt. The safe path would have been to remain in the medical sector, but I quickly felt a passion for the markets. After immersing myself in the financial advice, I felt I was on the right path to becoming a financial specialist.
How did you get your first customer?
The first person to ask me for financial advice was a family member who I was talking to at a family gathering. After hearing about the profit, I made on the futures markets she asked me to advise her on some small investments.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
I am a believer in the growing importance of social media marketing. In my opinion, it is important to put forward a professional appearance at all times online. LinkedIn is one of the most important ways customers find and contact me. I update my social media profiles on a regular basis to make sure all the latest information is available to potential clients.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
A tough decision I have had to make in the last few months is to sell a few stocks that were performing well, but because they are overvalued from a fundamental perspective, I decided to sell. However, I made a large profit and invested much of this in the Blockchain sector.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
Conducting lots of research is a must. Without a doubt, I feel I am fully prepared before I make any major decision about my business or personal investments.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
Securing a profit for my first client. I had been considering moving away from the medical sector into the financial markets for some time but was lacking confidence. Helping that first customer was a defining moment in my life.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
There is more growth to come for my companies, and I hope to expand into global markets. There are many opportunities for growth in Asia which I am only just beginning to explore. In the next few years, I hope to create a footprint in Europe and Asia to expand on the success we have already achieved.
What business books have inspired you?
“The Oracle Speaks” by David Andrews. This book had a huge impact on me as it uses interviews with Warren Buffett to explore his life and work. Buffett is a billionaire investor who inspired me to work towards building my investment career.
What is a recent purchase you have made that’s helped with your business?
This may sound crazy, but I recently purchased a new office space which has allowed me to provide a better standard of customer service. More meeting rooms and an open plan space has improved communication between myself, my employees, and our clients.
Who are your business inspirations?
Not only do I admire the work of Warren Buffett but I also believe Sir Richard Branson is a business leader who has had a positive impact on society. By using his power and influence for good, I believe Branson is showing the world there is more to business than just profit.