Scaling Up Guide Member Spotlight
Watch the Member Spotlight Video below!
Eric Hinkle's journey to becoming a business coach for independent retailers didn't start in the consulting world—it began with his own entrepreneurial adventures. As the founder of Scaling Up Guide, Eric now dedicates his time to helping other small business owners succeed. He offers a range of coaching services, from clarifying your mission/vision/values to a structured process for optimizing your sales strategy and one-on-one coaching for entrepreneurs scaling beyond the million-dollar mark. His goal is to help business leaders achieve profitable growth.
Eric’s coaching journey was sparked during his MBA studies at William & Mary in 2013, though he knew he needed more hands-on experience before diving into consulting. This led him to Homes.com, part of Dominion Enterprises in Norfolk, where he learned the ins and outs of larger operations and online marketplaces. From there, he returned to his entrepreneurial roots and purchased a business in Richmond. Now that the business is in good hands with his on-site manager, Eric has returned to his original passion—coaching.
Like any business owner, Eric faced challenges along the way, with cash flow being a major concern in the early stages of his startups. To manage his finances, he used credit cards, lines of credit, and leased equipment, spending money only on essentials. His meticulous approach to budgeting allowed him to navigate tough times and ultimately find success.
One of Eric’s most significant achievements was growing his first startup to 11 stores and $5.5 million in revenue in just five years. However, his second venture proved more difficult, requiring creative solutions to turn it around. These experiences, coupled with his expertise in online business, give him a unique perspective when working with his clients.
Now in a place where he can focus on what he truly loves, Eric’s goal is to help others reach their dreams faster than he did. Instead of focusing on specific business growth targets, he aims to support as many people as possible on their path to success.
For those thinking about starting a business, Eric advises against simply following a passion. Instead, he encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to find a meaningful purpose they can feel passionate about, aim to be the best in their field, and ensure their business model can financially support their goals.
Eric is deeply engaged with the business community and is particularly active on LinkedIn. As a new member of Retail Alliance, he’s eager to connect with others and add value to the community. While he keeps his Facebook interactions more personal, he values the relationships he’s built with clients and includes them as friends on Facebook. With a blend of practical experience, strategic insights, and a passion for guiding others, Eric continues to make a difference in the world of small business.