Startup Corner: Matthew Ennis, Reachmodo LLC

Minimally viable product …
An innovative Web-based marketing platform that enables businesses and organizations in every industry to communicate with their audiences via text message, email, social media and voice broadcast.
 
Problem solving …
Over 99 percent of text messages are read within 3 minutes of receipt. We are literally helping place the businesses and organizations that use Reachmodo in the pocket of their customers.
 
Seed money …
I fully self-funded the company’s startup and development costs.
 
Pivot …
Our approach to new customer acquisition. In the early days, our sales approach was 100 percent focused on online referrals and (search engine optimization) marketing. We quickly learned customers preferred a more personal connection with the companies they choose to work with, an approach not taken by any of our coastal-based competitors. We began hiring and developing a national sales force to work one-on-one with potential and current customers.
 
Biggest mistake …
Mistakes are the foundation from which we build. For me, it has always been hard to say no. When you are a successful entrepreneur, the phone often rings off the hook with opportunities. The key is to choose wisely and stay focused on your goals or you will quickly find that your time and commitments do not balance.
 
Best advice …
My first boss and lifelong mentor Linda Thieman, who now serves at the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools, taught me early in my career if you pursue something that truly ignites your passions, your efforts will be both fruitful and fulfilling. I have always had a passion for connecting with people and creating environments for sharing those connections.
 
Hurdles overcome …
We have yet to find a business or industry that Reachmodo cannot help connect and communicate with their audience. With that in mind, building and maintaining a brand positioning and marketing strategy that reaches all sales verticals has been an ongoing challenge.

Greatest need …
Reachmodo is actively seeking experienced salespeople to serve as our brand ambassadors both locally and in markets across the United States.