Washington, D.C.

Those looking for an example of the high caliber of professionals representing WSI need only look to New Jersey-based Internet Consultant Troy Ireland. Ireland was recently named the 2003 Businessman of the Year by the National Republican Congressional Committee’s Small Business Advisory Council.

Each year, the Advisory Council honors up-and-coming businesspeople from every State who have each made a significant contribution to the success of their business sector. From these Regional nominees, a national award is given to one exceptional professional; this year’s winner was Troy Ireland.

In just over a year, Ireland has grown his WSI Internet Consultancy franchise into a leading supplier of Internet Services for businesses. In addition to supplying web solutions to international clientele, his company offers advanced web development, web copywriting, opt-in marketing services and his specialty, Search Engine Optimization (SEO). His business has become so successful, he says, that he had to decline his invitation to Congress to accept his award in person due to scheduling conflicts.

According to Ireland, “WSI introduced [me] to all this success”. “It gives you a great foundation, with all the business processes and methodology you need to succeed [and] it’s flexible enough that you can take it where you want.” By focusing on measurable results – a vital component of the brand’s Internet Solutions Lifecycle™ – Ireland says his clients have come to expect a solid return on their investment, making them return customers and generating substantial referrals.

When asked about any other key strategies that have contributed to his success, he listed continuous learning and the ability to market oneself effectively as top priorities. “Talk to as many people as you can, learn as much as you can from people, about their needs, about their business. And don’t neglect to use the same technologies you’d use to market your clients’ businesses to market your own!”

In addition to recognizing exceptional members of the small business community like WSI's Troy Ireland, the Advisory Council’s mandate is to advise the U.S. House of Representatives, the Senate and the President of the impact legislation has on Small Business.