RESULTS: References
We really enjoyed the talk today on Networking Strategies. I walked away with several new ideas to try at events. I really appreciated how easily David made it to apply his advice and breakout of what we are doing.
Molly Thomas
Director of Sales
David presents a clear roadmap that can help us develop and implement focused solutions that will positively affect our bottom line.
Nikki Oyefeso
President
Great speaker, good course, just a ton of information in a little time.
Jonathan Goetz
BD/PM
David did an excellent job presenting a wide array of information and making it digestible and practical as well as implementable
Chris Venuti
I learned a lot! This was a real eye opener for myself and my company.
Dustan Ledford
President
David Kelly is great! This is a great program for upstart businesses. Southway is much further along that the other classmates, but there was still value in my attending.
Willy Moore
President
I really enjoyed this course. David is a great teacher. I look forward to working with him in the future.
Anthony Hubbard
President
Overall, very informative class. Changed my mind-set in regard to different aspects of the sales process. Mr. Kelly was an engaging teacher with a great attitude. Catered to each individual company well. Very satisfied with the class.
James Farmer
Beth Marchiano at Growth Solutions has been such a valuable resource for the growth of our business. Beth took the time to learn about our processes first and added valuable suggestions to help us streamline our systems for maximum efficiency. Whether Beth was directly serving our clients or working with our team, she was always professional, courteous and friendly. I appreciated how she frequently took the initiative without being asked to stay one step ahead on projects or routine tasks and always provided thorough, well-researched responses. Whether we needed help with customer service, data management or technology, Beth had our back. With her reliable administrative support, our business grew year after year. We highly recommend her and Growth Solutions!
Carolynn Aristone, MSW, LCSW, CST; Owner
Center for Intimate Relationships
After more than 20 years as a commercial construction professional I was asked to take on a business development role in 2012. I had no idea what I was doing so my first move was to attend a Marketing and Business Development seminar. David Kelly CEO of Growth Solutions Team, was the facilitator of that seminar and he opened my eyes to what I could achieve as a business development professional. The information and insight that I obtained through his leadership during the seminar inspired me and is something that I carry with me to this day.
Ronnie Brouillard, Director of Business Development
Chesapeake Contracting Group
This course helped me to determine the difference between a qualified and non-qualified lead, knowing that not every opportunity is a good one. It was a thought provoking course that has helped me refine and strengthen my networking strategy
Sarah Hill, Project Manager
CB Flooring
This course helped me learn how to approach sales and follow-up to close a deal. The content was extremely useful, like how to create a company sales plan and train our PMs and Supers to participate in their own roles.
Cherelle Reno, Project Executive
Northpoint Builders
When I needed to make a major hire, Growth Solutions efficiently recruited and screened qualified candidates for my consideration. It saved me days’ worth of time, and resulted in business-changing growth for my firm that I could not have accomplished on my own.
Kate Lawrence
Lawrence Law
We have been working with Barb and David of the Growth Solutions Team since February 2020. It just so happened that when we hired them, the Country went through one of the worst pandemics in history, our state was partly shut down for months, and we had to do some deep soul searching at times and business analysis that wasn’t easy. However, they proved to be amazing coaches and mentors, who were there for us every step of the way – supporting us, giving us advice, and helping us make tough decisions. Though 2020 was a difficult year for most, it ended up being one of our best and led to one of our most successful years in 2021.
We have grown more in the last year and a half than we had in almost 8 years. We love what we do and are able to help others. Having the Growth Solutions Team by our side has been instrumental in our success. We’d like to point out that though they are amazing business coaches, they’ve also built a phenomenal group of business leaders throughout the DC metro and Baltimore area. The introductions they have made for us have grown into client opportunities and key networking partners. They are experienced and knowledgeable in all aspects of growing a business, regardless of industry. We highly recommend them!
“There is nothing more valuable to a business than having a team member tell you they will do something — and then they do it.
Especially when they do it extraordinarily well.
That is the experience I had when I hired the Growth Solutions Team to recruit for my law firm. I was in search of an experienced lawyer to join my practice. GST immediately did two things. First, they took the time to understand what I was looking for. Second, they embarked on a search that was more intense and more persistent than anything I had envisioned or would have undertaken myself.
The result: I found two lawyers to hire, not just one, who have brought my practice to a new level. These hires have met and exceeded my expectations.
Just like the Growth Solutions Team. David Kelly’s motto is, “ABR. Always be recruiting.” As a small business owner, I am so grateful to team up with someone who doesn’t just tell you what to do, but who shows you how it should be done.”
Bruce M. Luchansky, Founder and Principal
Luchansky Law
“I can’t speak more highly of GST’s depth of experience and breadth of knowledge and competence for the small business owner.
For our own organization, they have emerged as a valued and trusted advisor and in many ways, an extension of our staff. This is particularly true since the onset of this new “normal” under COVID-19 provisions.
From the outstanding information they presented to our members on managing cash flow to their invaluable assistance [and commitment] in helping us transition during these times to a completely virtual organization, we are deeply grateful to the Growth Solutions Team.”
Mike Henderson, President and Chief Executive Officer
Associated Builders and Contractors Greater Baltimore
“As a trained speech evaluator and a business owner, I have a critical eye for different advice that is presented as well as how it is presented. David presents things in a clear, direct and structured way and yet still finds ways to make the learning experience enjoyable and memorable. He is an excellent trainer and I imagine an even better coach. He is a valuable asset to have as a presenter at your future events as well as someone you need to speak with about how to grow your business.”
“There are uber-networkers and then there is Barbara Larrabee. Barbara is an uber-connector. She takes the time to listen and learn about your business… who you are interested in meeting with… and more importantly, who you should be meeting with. I strongly recommend Barbara Larrabee and the Growth Solutions Team.”
–Jason Plotkin
President at The Parkville-Carney Bussienss Association, Inc.
“David doubled my business and made me more productive with my time and a better manager.”
– Howard Bank Mortgage
“Barbara is professional, knowledgeable and one stop shop when it comes to Marketing. Her decades of experience and knowledge and her professionalism is unmatched within the industry. A truly Marketing guru!”
–Gabe OMaru
Business Consultant at Maryland Small Business & Technology Development Center
“David can provide your business a laser focus on what are the most important things to do first, second, third etc. in order to succeed. He has an uncanny ability to help you keep the main thing, the main thing. I encourage you to meet David and learn more about how he can help you business improve and grow and how to improve your leadership, no matter the size of your business. You’ll be glad you did.”
“David and his team presented at the GAF Contractor Expo yesterday 3/21. He and his team were very insightful and his topics of discussion were spot on. We differently had some “ahah” moments. I would highly recommend David Kelly and his team. We will have them present at another GAF Contractor Expo in the near future.”
–Tom Horan
Regional Sales Manager – Mid Atlantic , GAF
“David Kelly was very helpful getting me to think like a business owner and not like an employee. The Growth Solutions Team program makes you really work on running your business better. David was very responsive and available whenever I had questions, needed guidance or even a nudge. His team is also great at helping you make business connections. If you are a business owner, I highly recommend David and his team.”
–Meg Cotton
Owner/Designer at Niche Marketing Company, Inc.
“Incredibly generous with time, talent and sage advice — as well as enthusiastic and highly supportive, David helps companies challenges assumptions and rethink work efficiency.”
–Karl Adler
Director of Student Life & Humanities Coordinator
“Great sales trainer and motivator. Wants more for you than you want sometimes. Always willing to sit with you and talk it out until it finally clicks. Would recommend David to anyone looking to step up their sales game!”
–Samantha Mason
Sr. Client Representative, De Novo Attorney Services, Inc.
“Networking with Barbara is like being connected to an unlimited Rolodex of contacts. She is a fantastic connector of people and resources and is always looking for ways to assist businesses. Her connections have helped me meet the right people to grow my business. I have also attended a Growth Solutions Team seminar. I am generally leery of attending seminars because they fail to offer actionable advise. Well, this seminar was the opposite, it was full of actionable suggestions that I am currently using.”
“Barbara is a dream to with work with and I recommend her & the Growth Solutions Team. They simply know how to get businesses growing.”
–Philip Romm
Phil Romm Consulting
“As the Chief Marketing Officer of the Growth Solutions Team, Barbara Larrabee has been key in helping me network and become connected to potential clients and partners. Her professionalism, warm personality and genuine desire to help her clients has made my experience with her team overwhelmingly positive. I highly recommend Barbara and the Growth Solutions Team to anyone who wants to grow their business and see results.”
–Aline Lin
President at UserHappy and Link Studio
“I have been fortunate to get know and work with Barbara Larrabee. Barbara is the consummate professional and go to resource for individuals and businesses that want to go to the next level. Barbara and the Growth Solutions Team will help you define your goals, develop a strategy that is custom tailored to fit your unique needs and then most importantly…execute! Drawing on her diverse experience in sales, marketing, management and more, Barbara and the Growth Solutions Team will guide you on the path to success while holding you accountable so you don’t veer off course. Barbara also brings tremendous value to her clients by connecting them with other key contacts in her vast network to create successful partnerships. I can’t tell you how many people have told me they connected with their best client or business referral through Barbara and I have experienced it firsthand myself.”
“If you feel like you are stuck in a rut, your business has hit a plateau or you want to accelerate your growth – I highly recommend contacting Barbara Larrabee. She will help you remove or overcome and real or perceived barriers to success.”
–Kevin Spargo
Vice President of Sales at Computer Services Unlimited, Inc.
“I am a current client of David. His no nonsense style and practical advice have been a great benefit to me. He has enabled me to see the big picture and is helping me develop the strategies to get there. I highly recommend him.”
–Alan Billian
Attorney At Law at Alan L. Billian, P.A.
“When I first met David, I immediately knew this was a person who could assist me in bringing our business to a new level. His expertise in business management and professional contacts allowed us to expand our services, thus generating new revenue resources. He created an open forum for all his students to access others within his network, which cultivated an environment of exploration, goals, and accomplishments. He individualized each persons needs and identified strengths to build upon. I would highly recommend David and his services for any business owner who would like an opportunity to expand their business model, profit margin, and marketing ideas.”
– Donna Phillips
Co-Owner of Side Street Framers & Gift Gallery
“David has a sterling reputation in Baltimore. The events he puts on are well attended and packed with networking opportunities. The connections he makes are powerful. Highly recommended!”
– Burke Bowers
Relationship Manager at Howard Bank
“As the owner of my own company, I’m always on the lookout for talented professionals. When David was asked to help, it was obvious that the combination of his expertise, leadership, and energy was one of the driving forces behind the project. I like David because he is a big thinker who wants to help others make a positive impact in their business and/or in their community.”
“David is a smart guy and a charismatic leader who typically reads situations and understands the dynamics quickly. He is able to give you the right advice in a matter of seconds that you realize in that moment or days later that he was right on mark. He is very growth focused and is brilliant at getting you to think bigger. If you want to be aggressive about growth and hitting your goals, David would be an awesome coach for you.”
–Ben Offit
Partner/Financial Planner at Clear Path Advisory, Inc.
“David has made sure that my business is constantly moving towards our goals and vision. His experience and success as a business owner have been invaluable to me as I grow my own law firm. He’s a ‘coach’ in the truest sense of the word. David and his team don’t always tell me what I want to hear, but what will help me grow consistent with my vision and goals.”
–Jason Shultz
Owner at Shultz Legal, LLC
“If you are thinking about engaging David’s services and you are serious about growing your business, you need to do it. David is a proven professional that will lead you down the path to success. All you need to do is follow the plan. I would recommend David to any business person that is willing to put the work in.”
–Scott Eisgrau
VP/Branch Manager at Southern Trust Mortgage NMLS# 139186
“I met David through my boss, Marc. About a year into my career, my boss offered to enroll me into David’s program. Today, I’m more motivated, more successful, more accountable, and making my referral partners stronger! I understand the processes and sales techniques David and his team teach. Not only do they all have a solid track-record of success, they still use what they teach. The Team at Growth Solutions Team will teach you skills that are immeasurable. I’m more confident and successful then ever before. I’m also HAPPY and have financial stability! My family and I are searching for a new home and I am certain that my dreams are reachable, because of my training!”
–Vanessa Morris
Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic
“After interviewing more than five potential coaches, we decided to go with Growth Solutions Team. It is easily one of the best decisions we have made for our business. We’ve been able to significantly grow our bottom line thanks to the expert guidance of David Kelly and all the strategies he advised and helped us to implement.
We thank Mr. Kelly and Growth Solutions Team for contributing to the success of our business.“
–Scott Sheldon,
President, Sheldon & Sons Painting
“Barbara is really great at what she does. In just two months I nearly doubled my sales for the year. If you’re willing to listen to her she can help you grow and sustain your business. I highly recommend a conversation with Barbara if you need direction with your business.”
–David Addi
Screen Printing and Embroidery Specialist as Well as Promotional Products
“I’ve been working with Growth Solutions Team for almost four years. It has been one of the best decisions I have made as a business owner. I’m a technician who is passionate about what he does and who started a business around it so I could keep doing it and support myself. I never had a formal business training so these programs helped teach me about sales, running a business, and creating goals to guide my business each quarter. In addition to valuable skills gained, I have benefited from the feedback I get from a diverse group of business owners in each seminar, as well as the business connections that have been made. Where else can you spend time working out common issues with other small business owners?
I have experienced steady revenue growth throughout the years I have worked with Growth Solutions Team, but more importantly, I have put into place systems and teamed up with the right people to reduce the amount of time I need to spend working in the business. With this free time I can be with my family more, volunteer more, travel and pursue hobbies. Thank you, and I look forward to continuing to work together and grow my business.
”
–George Brown
President, GreenLeaf Construction
“David has been very hands on with our business and is directly responsible for helping fuel our growth. I would highly recommend David to any small businesses looking to take their company to the next level.”
–Joseph Tychostup
Managing Partner at Decker & Tychostup, LLC
After only one year, even as an established practice, David has been instrumental in helping our company grow by 40%. He is committed to our success and generous with his time and availability. He has a grass roots approach to connecting people in the community and experience and knowledge of a broad spectrum of businesses. I would highly recommend David for established business owners as well as start-ups looking to achieve their objectives. I only wish I had found him earlier.”
“Few people have the opportunity to work with a mentor and coach like Barbara — luckily I do. She has helped me understand the selling process (and what a process it is!!), spent countless time going over pitches, helping me tweak my approach, etc. Barbara cares about my success just as much, if not more, than I do. Stick with her, have some patience and work hard — you are sure to be successful.”
–Samantha Mason
Sr. Client Representative, De Novo Attorney Services, Inc.
As someone who led sales training for Cadbury in the U.S. and Canada, I know “good” when I see it. You more than fit the bill. Great reminders, and a couple of new ideas that will help me as I build BBSI in Northern Virginia”
–BBSI
“Barbara and David are really great at what they do. Ever since I became a client my total sales have only increased. Barbara and David are very attuned to my strengths and weaknesses and know exactly how to coach me. If you’re not interested in growing in your business and sales don’t call them. But if you’re stuck in a rut and want to see results in your sales call them today.”
“David was tremendously helpful in building our sales and business processes. He has a unique way of thinking that help you obvious yet hard to see solutions to what appear on the surface to be complicated. I would highly recommend David and his services to anyone.”
Working with David Kelly and Growth Solutions Team has changed my life and the life of my business. I went from losing money (as most small businesses do in the beginning) to earning a professional wage in a matter of a few short years. Like most small business owners I didn’t think I needed David’s help. But its near impossible to be a CEO and to direct your team without some strategic vision and planning and that’s where David comes in. I like to say that he gives you the shovel, but you have to do the digging.
I have an opportunity to join the rarified air of the top 2% of earners in my profession in only my fourth year of business, and third year with David. My sales calls convert at a high rate, we see tons of patients, and we collect money for services rendered. All, mind you, while working fewer hours, hiring more employees and building a business and not a job…
My only regret in dealing with David and Growth Solutions Team is that I did not begin sooner.
–Dr. Marc Gulitz D.C., President
Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic