What do all successful small businesses have in common?

That was something I asked David Gava, the 239th person I’ve met on my quest to have lunch with 500 strangers.

David is very qualified to answer the question, because he owns an accounting and business strategy firm, Omnia Business Solutions. In other words, he’s looked at the books of many fantastic businesses in a range of industries.

David said his successful clients have two things in common. First, they’re focused on personal growth; they’re always looking to become better people. Second, they have high standards of customer service; they know that if they look after their clients, their clients will look after them.

As you’d expect, David has a sharp business and finance brain. But the most impressive thing about David is his warm, caring nature. He’s one of those people who values emotional intelligence over the intellectual kind.

I really enjoyed my lunch with David. I learned a lot and we had some fascinating conversations.