Benjamin Lang is a 15 year old tri-lingual high school sophomore and small business owner who is currently lives in New York. This year he returned from what he calls the best year of his life in Raanana, Israel. He started an eBay business when his family returned to the U.S. His business like most came about in an accidental way. Ben was just doing his daily routine, like teens tend to do, and after he made some money trying to help a family member out he didn’t defer or question his entrepeneurial AHA moment. He thought to himself- this could be a business that generates revenue and so he created it. He then began to realize that everything and everything around him was a tool to his success and not an obstacle to it. As a result, in just a short time in business, Ben has grossed several thousand dollars in revenue and is now dabbling in other creative ventures such as web design and teen business coaching. Ben’s business is growing and he is marketing so much that he also managed to get featured on his local news.  Peep his TV spot below and check out his interview.

Ben, thanks for sharing your Infinite Expedition. Wishing you continued success in your entrepreneurial endeavors.

1. What inspired you to start your own business?

The inspiration came when my grandfather gave me all of his camera equipment to sell. I made a lot of money selling it while having fun. So I realized I could sell other people’s stuff and make money.

2. What advice would you give to teens (your peers) who are interested in starting their own business?

My advice would be to get a professionally designed website and spread it through social marketing.

3. What would you consider the 3 most important skills in being an entrepreneur?

Networking, perserverance and creativity. I’ve been working on networking very hard. It takes a lot of effort but pays off. Perserverance I feel that I’ve mastered, I try remarkably hard to be successful at everything I do. Creativity is very important and I’m still working on it.

4. What is a typical day like for you? Do you participate in other activities? Volunteer?

A typical day is a train ride to school to NYC and a ride back at 6 followed by too much homework and finally time to work on my business. I also use my spare time during my day to get a head start on my homework and respond to emails from customers. Twice a week I prepare sandwiches and meals for homeless people. I am also on my school’s track team.

5. What is your greatest fear and how do you manage it?

My greatest fear in my business is having a package being lost by USPS. It’s happened before and it’s very stressful.

6. What resources did you need to start your business?

For my eBay business I didn’t really need much beside some boxes, a scale, tape and an eBay account with positive feedback.

7. What is your favorite thing about being an entrepreneur?

My favorite thing about being an entrepeneur is feeling like an adult. I love the feeling that I’m doing something that other kids won’t be doing for five or more years.

8. What book has inspired you the most?

“Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty” by Harvey Mackay. It’s a book about networking which I think is one of the most critical aspects about business.

9. How do you market your business?

I advertise on Facebook, Twitter, blogs, Craigslist, flyers and paid ads.

Connect with Benjamin:

On Twitter: @entrepreneurpro

Interview on Teenaged World of Maddy

Ebay Website 1: www.ebayben.com

Teen Coaching Website: http://teenbizstarter.com