After receiving his dual bachelor’s degree from Morehouse College and Georgia Tech, in General Science and Mechanical Engineering, and his MBA in General Management from Harvard School of Business, Elliott Holland knew that as he traveled the road to success, he would achieve his goals without compromising.
Here, he shares how the first black billionaire has inspired him, how membership in the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) has enhanced his life and why you might catch him hanging out on rooftops. –al weems
Would you agree or disagree with the following statement: Success is 99 percent perspiration and one percent inspiration?
That’s not the equation.
What does your equation look like?
Singles mothers work harder than investment bankers. Success is 50 percent setting the right goals, 25 percent persistence and 25 percent dealing with the adversity that will come en route to your goal.
How do you define success?
Success is achieving the goals you have set out for yourself without compromising your integrity.
Name a book that has helped you in your professional development. Why?
Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun by the late Reginald Lewis. This is the autobiography of the first black man to acquire and run a billion dollar company. It’s basically a how-to guide to buying a business and building generational wealth for Blacks. Reginald was from the streets of Baltimore, went to an HBCU, but hustled his way into Harvard Law School and kept the hustle up for 30 years. He’s also a frat brother of mine [Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.].
How has being a member of NBMBAA helped you professionally? Have you encouraged colleagues to join the organization? How did you convince him/her to join?
NBMBAA has given me an instant network of colleagues to add to my professional resources. Being involved in the organization helped me grow my professional skills by learning from others. I have encouraged others to join by sharing my experiences in growing my network.
How do you unwind after a busy day?
I like connecting with friends, cracking some jokes, and having a good drink. Rooftop bars are my favorite.
What’s your favorite vacation destination?
Miami … because it combines a beautiful atmosphere with a live party scene. It also brings back memories of SpelHouse spring break.
Do you have a mentor or are you a mentor? If so, how has mentoring impacted your career?
I have several mentors and mentees. It’s critical. Your mentors act as your board of directors when making big decisions and plotting your career path. They also make introductions that open doors. You do the same for your mentees and help them avoid some of the mistakes you made.
What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received?
When thinking about jobs and opportunities, look for three things: profitability, growth and ownership of stock, equity, etc.
