Six questions with Ben Sgro -Sgro, Hanrahan, Durr & Rabin, LLP
What inspired you to launch your business?
My dad, Greg Sgro, started our firm in 1988. He went out on his own after practicing for only six months. It was a decision borne out of a strong belief in his ability to create a successful future for himself. And, of course, unending support from my mother, Leslie Sgro.
I joined the firm after graduating from law school in 2014. I worked at a national law firm with over 800 attorneys during law school. It was the best experience I could have had in hindsight because it showed me the beauty of a small, community based, client-focused law firm such as ours. The decision to come home and work with my family and friends was as clear as day. We know all of our clients personally, we have relationships throughout the community, and we work very well together. Coming back to Springfield to work with my dad has been priceless, and I look forward to growing our business in this community for a long time to come. I couldn’t imagine taking any other path.
About what are you most passionate?
From a business standpoint, I am most passionate about my clients’ well-being. My practice focuses largely on personal injury litigation, including car/truck accidents, wrongful death, slip and fall injuries, and Workers’ Compensation claims. My work allows me to help people through some of the toughest times in their lives. I guide clients through the process of their claim by making sure they get the treatment they need, that the medical bills are properly handled, and dealing with the insurance company. Taking care of people in their time of need, and ensuring that they are treated properly, is the most rewarding part of my job.
From a personal standpoint, I am most passionate about my family. I have a wife, Abby Sgro, a two-year-old daughter, Eliette, a new baby on the way, and two dogs. They keep me going every day, especially during those times that it would be easier to stay in bed. Oh, and fishing. I really like to fish.
How do you start your day?
I wake up at 4.30 am most days, make a cup of coffee, and work remotely until about 6.30. Then I let the dogs out, make some breakfast, and get Eliette ready for daycare. Then I generally get to the office by about 7.10 each day. It is important for me to see my daughter each morning. It brightens my day and reminds me why I didn’t just hit snooze on my alarm.
Favorite local business support?
I love getting lunch from Café Moxo and Long Nine. The farmer’s market is also a great place to shop because it exposes me to so many local businesses in a concentrated area.
What do you deem as success in business?
Referrals. I see a referral as the highest compliment a client could pay me. It means that they are happy with the work I have done and trust me to do the same for their family and friends, I see repeat clients in the same light, but it generally means that someone I know and like has been injured, which mutes the pride that accompanies such a compliment.
What is your number one piece of advice for business owners?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The majority of us are not first movers in our industries. Likely, someone has been down this road before you and can provide advice and insight about any given situation. It is my experience that most people are willing to share their experiences and insights. These are invaluable resources that can help you avoid some of the pitfalls you will encounter. Why not take the opportunity and learn from those who have come before us?