Bill McGill’s story is a testament to the power of dreaming big, embracing opportunities, and finding fulfillment in helping others achieve their goals. His journey from the U.S. Navy to corporate America to finally becoming a successful business owner and Career Ownership Coach with The Entrepreneur’s Source (TES) is one filled with lessons, challenges, and triumphs.
A Lifelong Dreamer
From an early age, Bill McGill was inspired by his father, grandfather, and uncles that were in the military. It also did not hurt that when he was young, the number one movie was “Top Gun.” Joining the U.S. Navy was the fulfillment of a dream and the start of an illustrious 28-year career. As a submarine officer and later a strategic planner and military advisor, Bill had the opportunity to work with extraordinary leaders and skilled technicians in exciting and demanding environments.
The Navy taught Bill the value of leadership, personal growth, and the importance of goal setting. He observed firsthand that leaders who prioritized the development of their people inspire great achievements and foster of climate of continuous improvements. These lessons would later shape his approach to business and coaching.
Transition to Corporate America
After leaving active duty, Bill transitioned to the corporate world, where he continued to work with great people and experienced significant personal and team success. However, despite these achievements, something was missing. In the corporate environment, Bill no longer felt he was part of something greater than himself. The cause and camaraderie he experienced in the Navy were replaced by a focus on profit margins and bottom lines.
Bill found that many capable individuals in corporate America were unfulfilled, stuck in careers with limited advancement opportunities, poor work-life balance, and inadequate compensation. The atmosphere was often one of regret and faded dreams, exacerbated by the constant threat of layoffs and restructuring. Eventually, Bill himself faced the harsh reality of being laid off. At the same time, Bill was also retiring from the Navy reserves, so his safety net was also gone. Thus prompted a period of reflection and reevaluation of his career path.
The Turning Point
At this crossroad, a TES Career Ownership Coach reached out to Bill. Through the guidance of his coach, Bill was able to inventory his skills and goals, realizing his passion for helping others achieve their objectives. His coach helped him gather the necessary facts and insights to make an informed choice about his next steps. This process was pivotal in Bill’s journey towards becoming a TES Career Ownership Coach himself.
Bill’s background in strategic planning proved to be a significant asset. He explains, “In both strategic planning and coaching, identifying the core question and building a vision or mission plan are critical.” The alignment made the transition to a TES franchisee a natural fit for Bill.
The TES Difference
For Bill, joining TES filled the void he felt in the corporate world. As a franchisee, he became part of a larger mission while retaining autonomy over his business. He shares, “As a franchisee, I am part of a bigger entity, a bigger mission. Now I get to build a team and lead others on my own terms. I have a say in how things are run and enjoying the autonomy.”
TES provided Bill with comprehensive training to shorten the learning curve and help him structure his day effectively. This support system is invaluable, especially for those transitioning from different career backgrounds. The opportunity to operate a completely virtual business was also a significant draw for Bill, allowing him the flexibility to be more available for his family, something that was not possible before with extended deployments and long hours in the office. He and his wife, Carol, now enjoy taking trips to Florida and are even planning to spend future winters there.
A Rewarding Career
Bill finds immense satisfaction in helping his clients dream and explore their possibilities in a safe, pressure-free environment. As a Career Ownership Coach, he assists individuals in discovering and pursuing their goals, which he finds deeply rewarding. “Helping people learn and find something that fits their Income, Lifestyle, Wealth, and Equity (ILWE®) goals is extremely rewarding. I really enjoy it,” Bill shares.
One client’s story stands out to Bill. He collaborated with a fellow veteran who, like himself, had lost his job. This client had a clear vision of his goals and was committed to achieving them. He chose a business model that allowed him to involve his family, creating a legacy of business ownership in the family. This transformative decision not only moved him closer to his goals but also strengthened family bonds and future income potential.
Advice for Veterans Considering Business Ownership
Bill’s journey offers valuable insight for veterans contemplating a similar path. His key advice is to be open to learning and exploring all possibilities. “Be willing to learn. Dedicate yourself to learning about all the possibilities available to you. Consider there may be things you do not know about yourself yet,” Bill advises. Working with a TES coach can provide a safe and supportive environment to explore options without pressure or sales tactics.
The combination of his Navy training, corporate experience, and entrepreneurial spirit has equipped Bill with a unique perspective and a strong desire to help others succeed. His journey from the Navy to corporate America to finally TES demonstrates that it is never too late to pivot and find a career that aligns with your passions and values.
Embracing New Possibilities
Bill McGill’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of fulfillment. His experience in the Navy instilled in him a strong sense of purpose and leadership, while his time in corporate America highlighted the importance of aligning one’s work with personal values and goals. As a TES Career Ownership Coach, Bill now helps others navigate their career transitions, offering guidance and support based on his own experiences.
For those at a career crossroads, Bill’s story is a reminder that it is possible to reinvent yourself and find a career that not only provides financial stability but also personal satisfaction and a sense of purpose. By exploring opportunities, setting goals, and seeking guidance from experienced coaches, anyone can take control of their career destiny and achieve their dreams.
If you are considering a career change or interested in exploring the possibilities of business ownership, The Entrepreneur’s Source is ready to help you navigate your journey. With no cost and no pressure, a conversation with a TES coach could be the first step towards a fulfilling and rewarding career. As Bill says, “What does it hurt to learn?”
Start exploring your career possibilities and take the first step towards owning your future. Learn more today!
