February – Innovator
Jonathan Paradeau, Full-time client at France OffiCenter and our Innovator of the month, is a well-known and respected private jeweler with over 29 years of experience. Jonathan prides himself on his 100% customized jewelry selection, providing diamond education and one on one assistance to each client. Continue reading for more about Jonathan and what he does.
Every business has a story, tell us yours.
I was a freshman at St. Johns University during the Fall of 1985, when my journey into the jewelry business began. By the end of my freshman year, I had 12 salespeople selling gold for me. By the end of year two, my product offerings included diamonds, engagement rings, and baubles that sparkle. They say “nothing feels as good as gold;” however, I quickly learned “diamonds are a girl’s best friend.”
Over the years, I developed relationships with my clients by helping them with their jewelry selections. I soon discovered I did not have to advertise my business because clients were referring me to their family, friends, and colleagues as their Private Jeweler. From the start, I kept all of my client’s jewelry desires and purchase histories in order provide continuity of service and offerings (which proved to be very valuable).
Today, after 28 years of hard work, I have thousands of clients throughout the United States keeping me more than busy.
You were chosen as this month’s Innovator Client. What does being an Innovator mean to you?
To me, being an innovator means to create something new. To keep what is working, but to maintain a drive to evolve your business. To balance between quality and the risk associated with change.
No one likes to brag about their business, but if you HAD TO . . .
My clients like my business because I can offer them Tiffany Quality, and they don’t have to pay Tiffany Retail. The savings are substantial, and the quality process is clearly recognizable
We learn from our mistakes, especially in business. Give us some words of wisdom.
Document your business process, and train your team so everyone is on the same page. The outcome will be predictable and measurable.
Share the best advice you ever received.
If you believe in your business, never quit, because you might give up one day short of success. On the other hand, if you don’t believe in your business even if it’s successful, go do something else.
Describe your perfect day off.
My perfect day off involves no plans other than my wife and kids.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
I made my first silent retreat at the Jesuit Retreat House at the young age of 19. I continue to make annual retreats to this day.
Together we are stronger. Tell us something you like about being our client.
I like being a client of OffiCenters, due to their professional capabilities and the offerings of service. I have come to rely on my support team here at France OffiCenters, and continue to be amazed at what they do for me and my business!
If you could work anywhere under the sun, where would you choose?
I like it right here; however, the second location will most likely be in Arizona where my wife’s family currently lives and enjoys the warm weather.
How can people CONNECT with you?
I like helping others, so feel free to connect with me by telephone at 952-897-0744 or my email at: JParadeau@JonathanJeweler.com
