Opportunity doesn’t come knocking all that often. But, when it does the best advice I can offer for any vetrepreneur is to seize the moment. You’ve got to be ready to take advantage of an opportunity because you may only get one chance. But, smart vetrepreneurs can increase their chances by creating more opportunities for themselves.

I got my first break when Dr. Renaldo Jensen, a retired Air Force colonel who led the supplier diversity development program at Ford Motor Co. for 27 years, gave me the opportunity to pitch my business to executives at Ford. I wasn’t given the opportunity just because he and I were both vets. He gave me the opportunity because I had earned it.

The way I earned it was by working hard throughout my career and made myself invaluable to my employers and earned their respect and admiration. I was able to make countless connections and network with colleagues who would prove to be vital to the success of my business. There is no such thing as a self-made man. Everybody has to have help. You got to find those go-to people. That’s what I did. I met some key people in the industry, and when I finally got my opportunity, I seized it.

When you vetrepreneurs out there get your opportunity, seize it. Approach this opportunity the same way you would any mission. When you meet a person who potentially can change your life, you need to let them know that you are a winner. One of the first steps is appearance. Always dress for success. We are all human beings and let’s face it, first impressions are important and people size you up the moment you walk through the door.

After you’ve made that positive first impression, you have got to convey a solid presentation. You have got to do your homework and be prepared to deliver the most professional presentation you can. Do a few dry runs and sharpen your delivery because you’re probably only going to get one shot.

Once you get to that level where you have seized the opportunity, you can’t be complacent and rest on your laurels. My military experience gave me the courage and confidence. Anyone going into business must be confident. Once you get the opportunity then onus is on you. You must execute. People expect you t perform and in many cases you are expected to perform at a very high level. If you can perform at that high level, you opportunities will grow.

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