Raja Imran Younas is an entrepreneurial force within the hospitality and technology sectors, demonstrating a keen ability to blend innovation with business acumen. Born in the early 1980s, his journey into the business world was underpinned by a solid educational foundation, holding a Bachelor of Business Administration from Preston University and a Postgraduate Diploma in Hotel Management from Near East University, Cyprus. This blend of business and hospitality education set the stage for a diverse and successful career.
In the early 2000s, Younas ventured to the USA, bringing with him a vision to make a mark in the competitive landscape of American business. He quickly made a name for himself in the hotel industry, earning recognition and awards that highlighted his potential and drive. However, it was his entrepreneurial spirit that truly set him apart.
Younas founded Beyond Management, a consultancy that bridges the gap between hospitality and IT, showcasing his knack for creating solutions that cater to modern business needs. His ventures did not stop there; he established Premier Laundry, tapping into a niche market within the hospitality industry, and later, LINENTECH, a testament to his foresight in recognizing the potential of technology in traditional sectors.
His businesses, such as The Staffer, further emphasize his commitment to innovation, operational efficiency, and exceptional customer service. Raja Imran Younas’s journey reflects a blend of strategic thinking, adaptability, and a continuous drive for improvement, positioning him as a notable figure in the realms of entrepreneurship and business development.
How did you get started in this business?
I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey with a blend of academic knowledge and a strong passion for the hospitality and technology sectors. My initial foray into the business world began with hands-on experience in the hotel industry, complemented by my educational background. This combination sparked the creation of my first venture, Beyond Management, where I aimed to bridge the gap between hospitality services and IT solutions, addressing a niche yet growing market demand.
How do you make money?
My revenue streams are diversified across several businesses, primarily in hospitality management, technology solutions like LINENTECH, and the laundry service industry with Premier Laundry. Each venture addresses specific market needs, leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and customer service, thus creating value for clients and generating revenue through service offerings and software subscriptions.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
Becoming profitable was a journey that took patience and persistence. For Beyond Management, it took about two years to turn a profit, a period during which we focused on building a solid client base and refining our service offerings. The initial investment in time and resources was significant, but understanding market needs and delivering value consistently were key to achieving profitability.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
Certainly, there were moments of doubt, especially when faced with challenges that seemed insurmountable. During those times, I relied on my passion for the industry and the support of my team. I also embraced a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability, which helped me navigate through uncertainties and turn challenges into opportunities for growth.
How did you get your first customer?
Our first customer came through networking and word-of-mouth referrals within the local business community. We focused on building relationships and showcasing our unique value proposition, which resonated with our target clientele. Delivering exceptional service from the onset ensured that our first customers not only stayed with us but also referred us to others.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
Digital marketing, especially content marketing, has been instrumental in generating new business. By creating valuable content that addresses the pain points and interests of our target audience, we’ve been able to attract and engage potential clients, establishing our brands as thought leaders in our respective industries.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
One of the toughest decisions involved reallocating resources and pivoting some of our business strategies in response to the changing market dynamics due to the pandemic. It required a careful assessment of our operations and making hard choices to ensure the sustainability and growth of our ventures.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
I believe my success can be attributed to a relentless pursuit of innovation, a commitment to delivering value, and the ability to adapt to market changes. My passion for what I do fuels my drive, and my team’s dedication plays a crucial role in our collective achievements.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
The most satisfying moment was seeing Beyond Management take off and become a recognized name in the industry. The realization that our efforts were making a tangible difference in our clients’ operations and contributing to their success was incredibly rewarding.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
The future is geared towards further innovation, especially in integrating technology with traditional industries. I’m most excited about exploring new technologies that can revolutionize the way services are delivered, enhancing both efficiency and customer experiences.
What business books have inspired you?
“Good to Great” by Jim Collins and “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries have been particularly inspiring, offering insights into building lasting businesses and the importance of agility and innovation in today’s fast-paced world.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would advise my younger self to embrace failure as an opportunity to learn and grow. It’s also crucial to be patient and persistent, as success often takes time and comes through overcoming challenges.
Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how should someone contact you?
Absolutely, I’m open to mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs. Those interested can contact me through LinkedIn or via email, available on my company’s website. Sharing knowledge and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs is something I’m passionate about.