CEO and Chairman of Zinio, Arthur Becker has had quite the history in the technology and different application management services. He was previously invested in NaviSite and the Vera Wang Fashion company for several years each. Becker has had much success over the years, and the mystery of his success has finally been solved. Recently, the successful businessman has been invested in a great idea that he began to pursue in 2011. Though he has been the CEO of several companies over the years, this venture has set him apart in both the real estate and the technology world.
Arthur Becker currently invests in different residential developments, where he works to develop townhouses for different people. His idea to renovate these townhouses and either sell or lease them has put him in the gossip circles across the globe. Becker has expanded his real estate business to include New York and Florida, which have also expanded his horizons. In smaller news, Arthur Becker was married to Vera Wang, the noted fashion designer, for 23 years before splitting in 2012. However, the split might have affected him. Personally, the split had no change on the business side. In fact, his work with Vera in her fashion company helped with his real estate idea as well.
With a great deal of information to understand about his business, it is easy for those inspired by Becker to learn from him and incorporate his ideas into their business practices. Below is a little more information about the businessman himself.
How did you get started in this business? What inspired you to start this business?
I started in February 2003 on the technology side of the business working as the CEO of NaviSite. In 2011, I started Madison Partners, LLC which is my real estate side of the business that I focus on now. I would have to say that my inspiration has come from working closely with the Vera Wang Fashion company, where I learned a great deal about design and fashion.
How do you make money?
I essentially make money by investing in unique properties which I renovate and fix up to either lease or sell. Through leasing and selling these properties, I make back my investment plus some.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
I had almost an immediate profit on several investments in the technology side of things. That satisfaction was rewarding in many ways too, but I rushed my business instead of taking my time.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
I don’t think there was really any time that I necessarily doubted myself as a businessman. I knew what I had to do and which businesses and houses I needed to invest in. If anyone wants to follow in my footsteps, I would say that knowing all the verticals in business before diving in because it can get confusing. It’s easy to doubt yourself if you don’t know what you are doing.
How did you get your first customer?
Madison Partners, LLC was my first company that I privately invested through. My previous work essentially led up to my first private investment “customer” so to speak. I have recently narrowed my focus a bit, which has changed my sort of customers.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works well to generate new business?
Use your previous experience and go with it. I was lucky to have so much prior experience in the investment field that marketing strategies weren’t very necessary. My name was already out there. However, if you are looking to start your own business, having a great marketing team can help get your name out there. Referrals are a great way to market, but they aren’t the only way. Invest in billboards, business cards, pens, shirts, whatever it takes to get your name out there. Also persuading people to see your vision and your talent is another great strategy to get your business out there.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
The last few months haven’t really brought about many difficult decisions other than design elements and pricing for my real estate properties. Those two elements will always result in difficult and calculated decisions because you must look at market and design trends rather often.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
I would have to say that coming into the market at the right time has definitely helped with my success, but ultimately it has been hard work and focus on my business. Without hard work, you cannot expect to go anywhere.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
I’ve had many different satisfactions in business, but perhaps the most satisfying moment was that initial reward after my first successful private investment. I was greatly rewarded with that first success in my new business.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
I have a lot to look forward to in my business’ future. I will be putting the townhouses up for lease soon, and hopefully, someone will come along wanting to buy one of the houses. I’m most excited to see what the average person thinks of my townhouses and the design and quality of them.
What have business books inspired you?
Typically books that deal with the business side of real estate are books that I like to read to further my business. I also enjoy studying up on designs and trends, which can include magazines and articles as well. Other great books for business minds are technological books and marketing books, especially if you are considering starting your own business.
What is a recent purchase you have made that’s helped with your business?
Recent purchases? I’ve had quite a few, including my investment properties. I would have to say that the best purchase for my business has been those properties. I intend to transform them into beautiful townhouses for people to lease or buy. Though they are investments, they are purchases to help my business as well, and since they are my business, then that makes them the best purchase.