Entrepreneur Adam Zahr’s Tips for Building Unique Businesses

By: Joshua Finley

Adam Zahr is not your typical entrepreneur. Zahr has made waves in the Australian business scene with his innovative approaches and steadfast commitment to growth. As the founder and CEO of Certify Group, which includes an Australian Trade Agency, he’s on a mission to revolutionize how tradesmen obtain nationally recognized qualifications. Zahr spends the majority of his time promoting the growth of his company, overseeing business and its portfolio. But Zahr’s journey to success hasn’t been straightforward; it’s been a dynamic path shaped by experiences and insights gained along the way.

Zahr’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited at 16 when he founded his first business while attending a selective football school. Reflecting on those formative years, Zahr recalls, “When I wasn’t playing football, I started a small streetwear brand, catering to fellow football enthusiasts.” Despite walking out on his high school exams, Zahr’s passion for business burned brightly. He honed his skills through a series of experiences, including a transformative stint with a Chinese businessman in the luxury fashion industry.

Bridging the Gap in Trade Education

Certify Group’s mission is a testament to Zahr’s innovative approach to business. The agency focuses on providing pathways for experienced tradesmen to obtain nationally recognized qualifications. Zahr’s vision stems from his deep understanding of the Australian education system, particularly the private college sector. “I saw potential for improvement,” he explains. “I wanted to do it better.”

Entrepreneur Adam Zahr's Tips for Building Unique Businesses

Photo Courtesy: Certify Group

Tips for Building a Unique Business

Over the years, Zahr has learned many entrepreneurial lessons, including resilience, adaptability, and the importance of continuous improvement. Here, he shares his three tips for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to fill a niche and stand out in the industry.

Understand Your Numbers

Zahr emphasizes the important role financial literacy plays in business success. Knowing your Profit and Loss (PNL) statement, cash flow projections, and how to interpret spreadsheets enables entrepreneurs to make informed decisions. It’s not just about making money but also about managing it effectively. By mastering these numbers, entrepreneurs can identify areas for improvement, allocate resources efficiently, and mitigate financial risks.

Find Mentors and Business Coaches

Drawing from personal experience, Zahr stresses the value of mentorship. “You can eliminate years of pain and struggle through learning from somebody else’s life experience,” he explains. By leveraging their knowledge and expertise, entrepreneurs can avoid common pitfalls, navigate challenges more effectively, and accelerate their personal and professional growth. Building a network of mentors and advisors also provides access to diverse perspectives and opportunities for collaboration, ultimately enhancing decision-making and fostering long-term success.

Invest in A-Players for Your Team

Zahr emphasizes the significance of building a high-performing team. “Spend good money on A-players,” he asserts. “Building healthy competition within your team fosters excellence.” These A-players contribute to achieving business objectives and serve as catalysts for growth, inspiring and motivating their colleagues. Prioritizing quality over quantity when building a team ensures that each member brings value and contributes to the organization’s overall success.

Zahr’s Vision for the Future

Zahr’s entrepreneurial journey is far from over. With Certify Group as a cornerstone of his entrepreneurial portfolio, he’s set his sights on expanding his empire. “My biggest goal is buying, selling, and investing in other businesses,” he reveals. As he continues to coach aspiring entrepreneurs and navigate new ventures, Zahr’s entrepreneurial spirit remains stronger than ever.

Learn more about and connect with Adam Zahr by visiting his Instagram.