Going for a Ride with Serene Transportation
Michael Kincannon loves driving. While working as an Uber driver for over 3 years,Kincannon discovered that life on the road was therapeutic for him. So he decided to take it to the next level and start his own transportation company with his wife, Crystal.
Serene Transportation, LLC was born in December 2015. Although the couple operates out of a home office, they really conduct business in the 2 black Chrysler 300s they bought for the company. These vehicles ensure its clients will arrive at their destinations safely and in style. Serene Transportation takes their clients anywhere from hospitals, to airports, or to sporting events.
The two are not afraid to market themselves, network, and put themselves out there. This, Kincannon thinks, will be the secret to their success.
“One of our clients is a celebrity in Detroit and known worldwide. He’s a doctor and on the news a lot. We attended a networking event and met his assistant. She came over and talked to us and the rest is history. If we can land a few more clients like him, we’ll be gold,” he explains.
When it comes to being a business owner, Kincannon is enjoying the ride.
“I like the opportunity to own something that is mine. Business ownership has always been my dream. Eventually, my wife and I are going to hire employees.”
Between classic yellow cabs and the new ride-sharing phenomenon that made Uber and Lyft household names, Kincannon admits that competition is fierce. So he and Crystal set themselves apart from the pack by offering a more luxurious, personalized experience.
“It’s a battle here. When Uber came to Detroit, the taxi and limo services had to change their strategies. We may not have the technology that Uber has, but we basically go door-to-door to get our name out. We have to provide top-notch service because Uber and Lyft are so easy. But we make sure to wow our clients once they’re in the car with us,” Kincannon confides.
Marketing a Small Business
Word-of-mouth is the most effective marketing method for small businesses, and forKincannon, it’s no different. He markets Serene Transportation by dipping into his network of people – like friends and family – and they help get the word out for him.
“We take high school kids to their proms. We take trips to and from the VA hospital. Our client base ranges from ages 7 to 70. I connect with my old classmates, friends, family members, and friends from out of town. And then we get in touch with people they know. They say we’re 6 people away from everyone in the world,” he elaborates.
Serene Transportation also has a website and a Facebook page.
Advantages & Challenges of Business Ownership
One of Kincannon’s favorite aspects of business ownership revolves around the tax breaks, although the startup costs were a struggle at first. He also wasn’t used to the level of discipline required to run a business.
“You have to be disciplined because no one is going to get up and get business for you. You need to be working every single day.”
Still, he encourages any aspiring entrepreneurs thinking about starting a business to just go for it.
“Don’t think you can’t do something. Whatever your dream is, you can achieve it. Just act on it. Go ahead and try to pursue your idea,” he enthuses.
Experience as a 1-800Accountant Client
Michael Kincannon of Serene Transportation, LLC is a satisfied client of 1-800Accountant.
“I’m more than satisfied. I didn’t realize how easy it was going to be for me. Starting a business was costly and I wondered, ‘do I really need this?’ But I’m just amazed by the software and the tax preparation. I’m blown away,” he raves.
Photo credit: The photograph and logo included in this blog post were provided by Serene Transportation, LLC and are used with permission.
