James Nivette has over 20 years of experience in the software industry. He began his career in 1999 in Professional Services for Business Objects America, where he streamlined best practices and implementation using best practices and lessons learned. He then served as SVP of Asia Pacific for the same company between 2001 and 2003, overseeing enterprise operations including: sales, services, training and development. In 2003, Nivette joined Plumtree Software as a senior leader of service, overseeing all aspects of the software implementation process until 2005. He then worked at: Infor Global Solutions (2005 to 2009) as an account executive, Empower Software Solutions (2010 to 2012) as a national account manager, SAP (2012 to 2015) as a core client partner, and account executive, Inovium (2015 to 2018) as the CEO, BackOffice Associates (2018 to 2019) as a client account executive, and Rimini Street Inc (2019 to 2021) as a senior account executive. In 2021, due to the pandemic he went independent consulting for several Fortune 100 corporations. Currently Mr. Nivette is a leader in the SAP space assisting SAP customers in their data journey. In his current and previous roles, he has been responsible for leading and working with teams, both large and small.
What is your firm all about?
My company is all about helping clients manage their software needs in a way that brings out their best potential. We’re constantly innovating and expanding our services to meet the ever-changing needs of our clients. Whether a client is developing a custom solution or implementing an off-the-shelf product, we’re always looking for ways to help them stay ahead of the competition.
Quickly describe what an average working day is like for you?
An average working day for me typically involves a lot of meetings. I might have meetings with clients to discuss their needs, with my team to discuss project progress, or meetings with other executives to discuss strategy. In between these meetings, I might be working on a new project proposal or attending a strategy session for an ongoing project. I’m often working with teams of developers, designers, and testers to get feedback and ensure that a project is on track. And, of course, I’m always thinking about ways to improve our software and consulting services. In the evening, I do a recap and prepare for the next day while spending time with my family.
Please tell us a bit about your background and how you started your company?
After working in the tech industry for many years, I felt that I had the skills and knowledge to start my own company. At the time, I was working for SAP when I saw a need for specific tech-related services that I could provide. We help our clients to improve their businesses by providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. Our team is dedicated to helping our clients grow and thrive.
How have the pandemic and Lockdown affected you or your new business?
The lockdown has had a profound effect on my business. I have had to adapt to working remotely on a larger scale. This has been challenging, but it has made me more flexible and resilient. I have also learned the importance of staying connected to my team and customers, even when we can’t be in the same place. The pandemic has also forced me to be more creative in how I reach my customers and market my business. I have had to find new ways to connect with people and build relationships. This has been an excellent opportunity to learn new skills and grow my business in unexpected ways.
How do you separate yourself from your competitors?
I offer unique products and services that are tailored to suit clients’ specific needs. These include new and innovative software solutions or a unique approach to clients’ needs. I also focus on quality and only provide my clients with high-quality products and services. Last but not least, I place great importance on offering my clients excellent customer service, which has helped me get and retain new and old clients.
What were the top three mistakes you made starting your business, and what did you learn from them?
1 – I didn’t have a clear vision for my business. I knew I wanted to start a software consulting business, but I wasn’t sure what that entailed. As a result, I made many mistakes in the early stages of starting my business. I learned that it’s essential to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with your business. Otherwise, it’s easy to get sidetracked and lose sight of your goals.
2 – I didn’t delegate enough. In the beginning, I tried to do everything myself. I quickly realized that this wasn’t sustainable and that I needed to delegate tasks to other people to be successful.
3 – Not networking enough. I realized that networking is vital in the business world and that it’s essential to get out there and meet other professionals to grow your business.
What was your first business idea, and what did you do with it?
My first business idea was to start a company that would help other businesses with their marketing, both traditional and digital. I didn’t end up doing anything with the idea, but it was something that I was passionate about and thought could be successful.
What are the top 3 skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur, and why?
1 – The ability to identify opportunities: This is essential to start and grow a successful business. You need to see opportunities where others see problems or challenges.
2 – The ability to take risks: Entrepreneurship is all about taking risks. You need to be willing to take risks to achieve success.
3 – Grit: Entrepreneurship is not easy. There will be challenges and setbacks along the way. You need to have the ability to keep going even when things are tough.
Say I was starting my version of your firm; what advice do you have for me?
There are a few things that I would recommend if you’re starting your own firm. First, make sure that you have a clear and concise value proposition. What is it that makes your firm stand out from the competition? Secondly, don’t be afraid to niche down and specialize in a particular technology area. This will make you more attractive to potential clients looking for someone with specific expertise. Finally, always over-deliver on your promises and wow your clients with your work. If you can do these things, you are on your way to success.
What is your definition of success?
Success is about more than just achieving financial or professional goals. Sure, those things are essential, but they’re not the only things that matter. Success is also about happiness, fulfillment, and making a positive impact on the world. It’s about living a life that feels meaningful and purposeful. This definition of success may not be traditional, but it’s what works for me. And I think that as long as you’re happy and doing what you love, you’re successful – no matter what others say or think.
If you had the chance to start your career again, what would you do differently?
First of all, I would make sure to network more. It’s not what you know, it’s who you know, and networking is essential for meeting new people and making connections. Second, I would be more proactive in seeking out new opportunities. Instead of waiting for things to come to me, I would go out and find them. And finally, I would take more risks. Too often, we play it safe because we’re afraid of failure, but without taking risks, we’ll never achieve our full potential.
How can our community get in touch with you?
I am available by email or through my LinkedIn page. Please feel free to contact me with any questions about the software accounts management process. Thanks!