In this interview we find out more about Ian Theron (Head SME Unit Africa of G3G), his business journey and why he believes South Africa should support small business.
Ian says that G3G is a SAP Gold Partner that provides well-thought-out and designed business solutions and services to their clients. They work as a trustworthy partner with their clients and strive to make their businesses run better by continuously innovating and being excellent at what they do.
Why did you start your business?
We believe that all SMEs should have access to world-class ERP solutions that will assist them to grow their businesses beyond today. We want to help SMEs become industry leaders that can make a positive impact in our society and on the economy.
What do you love the most about running your business?
We love building relationships with people that, in turn, enable us to assist all our business partners (this includes clients and suppliers) to solve complex problems in the most cost-effective and efficient ways.
What is one of the biggest lessons you have learnt on your business journey?
People do business with people that they like. At the end of the day it is not about the product or service that you provide, because it can be replicated by anyone, but it is about the people, how you make them feel, and the relationships that you have with them that ultimately makes you succeed in business as well as life.
Why do you do what you do and what do you focus on to help you persevere and get through tough times?
I believe that we all have a part to play and a responsibility to leave whom or whatever we interacted with in a better state than before. It is a similar concept to “paying it forward”. If we all do our part in “making things better”, just imagine the world that we would live in. My true north is my family and setting an outstanding example for my kids.
Why should South Africa support small businesses now and beyond?
The money generated by small businesses contributes directly to the GDP of the country. As these SMEs grow, we are seeing the creation of employment opportunities which, in turn, further stimulates economic growth. Small businesses tend to be local and by supporting them we are supporting the “local is lekker” initiative, caring about our communities, and uplifting these communities to greater heights.
G3G is a proud Member of the NSBC
This Small Business Friday feature is proudly sponsored by Absa