Meet Jennefer Resko, Police Sergeant / Owner of 3-15 Documentation Group, LLC

Tell us about your business.

We document homeowners, businesses, and renters personal or business property, inventory, assets, etc. in the event of a burglary, robbery, fire, hurricane, divorce, theft, flood, etc. We provide PROOF.

Please tell us what being a business owner means to you and why you became an entrepreneur in the first place?

I’ve always liked the idea of being a business owner. Truthfully, this is the third business I’ve owned, however, this is the first business that I have gone into with total conviction (no pun intended).

I love the independence of owning my own business. I choose who will work for me, how much they will get for a job, etc. It allows me to utilize the vast knowledge of all the retired police officers and fire fighters so my clients can assured that their personal belongings will be dealt with in the utmost professional and confidential manner.

What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why? The everyday citizen has been my influence. Being a cop for 26 (27 in April) years, I saw the need for citizens to be armed (no pun again) with PROOF. Victims of crimes are usually stunned, if not in shock, then they get mad, then they calm down. If, for instance, they are victims of burglary, they most likely cannot tell us (police officers) the serial number of their TV or stereo. They’re not going to know the names of their kid’s video games. It’s sad to have a “he said” “she said” situation regarding ownership. Proving that a bracelet in the local pawn shop is yours, is hard, if not impossible, unless you have a detailed bill of sale or….a documented portfolio with several pictures of it.

What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?

Starting this business slowly and meticulously is the first thing. Documenting my own assets and property has been another. To my surprise, I own a lot more than I ever thought I did and if something does happen, I have PROOF as to what I own and it’s cost.

What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?

Know your market. In my case, homeowners and business owners tend to listen to talk radio. That’s where I advertise. Use social networking. I’m out there. Clients can find me on the web, Facebook and Linkin.

What has been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your business?

With all the experience that comes with having retired police officers and firefighters as contract employees, we offer free burglary and fire assessments. Even if you don’t go with my company. We also suggest a “fix” if we find a vulnerable area.

What one thing have you learned as a small business owner that has served you well over the years?

Keep your name out there. Join networking groups, pass out business cards, have an opening line when you introduce yourself, and smile. Even if the client says no, smile, hand them a card, and follow-up with a “Thank you for letting me present my business to you”. I send them a thank you card along with a small gift. That way, when they hear my commercial, they remember me.

Are there any resources or tools you’d like to share with other small business owners that have helped you run your business?

As previously mentioned, social networking, one-on-one networking, and some type of advertising is a must. Keep your name out there.

What do you do for fun/relaxation?

Since I’m a photographer, I’m also a scrapbooker….big time. I love arts and crafts and will dabble in just about anything.

What is Number One Business Goal you plan to accomplish over the next year?

I would like to be interviewed, not only by this magazine, but by several and on the radio and maybe TV. I would eventually like to have a local TV ad. I want to put together your own DIY kit for a home inventory and market it.

You want to write a book on … How to do your own Home Inventory and why it’s so important. I’ve actually started the book and I’m looking to self-publish by the end of summer. (fill in the blank and feel free to explain).

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? Whatever business you want to start, start one that you have background and experience in. Network, network, network.

What’s the best way for our readers to connect with you?

Email is threefifteen@att.net, or www.3-15docgroup.com. I’m on Facebook and Linkin. My phone is 1-877-660-8877 or 954-434-0230.