Chip McGraw – CEO & Founder of McGRAW
How long have you or your organization been a member of the Chamber?
Just a few short months, but so excited to dive into the SJCC community.
How have you, or your organization benefited from membership in the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce?
As new members of the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce, we are thrilled to embark on a journey filled with exciting possibilities and endless potential for growth. Our organization is eager to leverage the numerous benefits offered by the Chamber, ranging from networking opportunities with like-minded business professionals and contributing to the thriving business landscape of St. Johns County. We eagerly anticipate the chance to make a positive impact, enhance our business endeavors, and foster mutually beneficial relationships within this dynamic and supportive business community.
Briefly describe the services your organization provides the community?
Since 2009, McGRAW has been dedicated to driving business growth for companies in St. John’s County and beyond. Our organization offers a wide range of comprehensive services designed to propel businesses towards success. From lead generation and data solutions to strategic alignment and growth planning, we provide the tools and expertise needed to scale and thrive. Our signature offering, The Swell Strategy, is a 12-month growth plan that encompasses audits, analytics, market research, sales enablement, data services, and performance tracking. As a trusted HubSpot Gold Solutions Partner, we leverage advanced technologies to accelerate growth and alignment, empowering businesses to achieve exponential success. With McGRAW, businesses in the community can confidently navigate their growth journey, maximize their return on investment, and unlock their full potential.
What career advice do you live by?
Be patient and stay the course. Work on perfecting your craft and becoming an expert at what you do, in the long run it will give you a strategic advantage and pave the way to succeeding in your field. Staying committed to the long-term goals and consistently working towards them is crucial. It’s important to remember that success rarely comes overnight. Ultimately, the combination of patience and commitment leads to success.
What are the biggest challenges facing St. Johns County today?
One of the biggest challenges facing St. Johns County today is rapid growth and the strain it places on our resources and infrastructure. The county is experiencing significant population growth and an influx of new residents, which has led to increased demand for housing, transportation, schools, and other essential services. This rapid growth has the potential to outpace our ability to keep up with infrastructure development and maintenance. By taking a proactive and forward-thinking approach, St. Johns County can navigate the challenges of rapid growth while preserving the quality of life that has made it an attractive place to live and work. One which we have all collectively enjoyed for so long.
How do you define success?
Achieving the goals that you set for yourself, whatever they may be. Success is the alignment of your actions with your own set of values. It is the pursuit of meaningful goals that bring you joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose. It is about embracing your individuality, defining your own path, and living a life that is true to yourself. It is about finding fulfillment and contentment in the pursuit of your dreams and living a life that reflects your values and aspirations.
What past experiences or roles have led you to where you are today?
Constantly following my dreams and always pushing forward no matter how scared I was of failing, being willing to take risks, and always being open to learn and listen to the advice and experiences of others are the underlying factors that have brought me to where I am today. Some of those pivotal experiences and roles were my fist inside sales role at Ronco Machine, starting my own Coldwell Banker Franchise in Costa Rica, developing real estate in Nicaragua, being the Director of Latin America at Framecad and starting my first Call Center and telecommunications business in Costa Rica. They have instilled in me a deep passion for business growth, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to continuously learn, adapt, and leverage my knowledge to drive exceptional results for the clients and communities I serve.
What is a fun fact about you?
I’m passionate about chasing waves around the globe with my surfboard and I’m bilingual in Spanish and English.
