The Best of America Small Business Awards recently welcomed Matteo to the BASA Independent Judging Panel and invited him to share his story in a short interview.

Can you tell us briefly about yourself and the role creativity plays in your job?

I'm a TV Presenter, Radio Host, and a Personal Branding Expert. I have been working in the entertainment industry for years, and I can say my job is a balanced mix of creativity, communication, and sales. To me, creativity means talent, which you either have or don't. I also think that if one has the talent, the need to pursue it as it's a world-changing force and resource.

Why did you choose to work in the entertainment industry?

I believe I didn't choose the job; rather, the job chose me. Looking back, all I ever wanted was to be on TV. I remember being young and imagining myself working in this industry. I honestly can't say it was an easy entry for me as it took me more years to succeed in the industry than I initially forecasted. However, I am very glad I can now make a living in the industry.

So, what steps did you take in your early career to help you succeed?

I started as a TV crew member and branding expert for TV personalities. It took me some time to climb the ropes, but my big break came over 15 years ago when I was asked to work on a pilot for a makeover TV program. At the time, the program organizers were looking for a new face, and luckily, I had the skills and natural predisposition to be in front of a camera. Doing the show was very exciting and challenging and the same time, but we managed to go for 4 seasons successfully. When I think back to those years, I don't think I expected much from the project, but after the successful run, more and more companies started looking for me with new and exciting offers.

What key challenges do you see modern-day small businesses facing, and how can they overcome them?

When I think of future challenges, the few things that come to mind are globalization and maintaining long-term sustainability. Companies are now facing fierce global competition and can no longer just focus on local communities, whether they like it or not.

"Entrepreneurs fight for what is right. They are always together with their staff, and when something happens, they never hide behind their secretaries or hundreds of employees' hard work for bureaucracy's sake."

Being an expert in your field, what advice would you give someone looking to follow in your footsteps?

I'd advise them not to accept compromises easily, as what goes around comes around. My years in the entertainment industry have taught me that If you keep a skeleton in your wardrobe, someone will find it out sooner or later. So, taking risky shortcuts is never a good idea, as it will only be a matter of time before they come to the surface. Generally speaking, I found that most small businesses have way more ethics in conducting business than large companies. Their potential is also unlimited; if well managed, the sky is the limit for them.

What would you say to someone entering the awards?

Be bold and dream big as no one lands on the moon by looking at their neighbor's garden! The entrepreneurial world is made of brave people, so they shouldn't spare themselves but always strive to do their best, and when they do, they shouldn't keep it to themselves but let the world hear about their wins.

"When small companies turn their dream success into reality we all love to read about that."