Name of company: The Saxon Group Inc. 
Name of woman leader: Jeni Bogdan
Based in: Sugar Hill, Ga.
Description: Executes full-service industrial construction projects valued up to $50 million
Began: 1991
2003 sales: $13.4 million
2007 sales: $81.8 million

What was your inspiration for starting The Saxon Group?
While Jeni Bogdan was working as a project manager in her father's construction company, one of her clients suggested she branch out on her own. "They thought it would be beneficial to have women business owners in industrial construction," she says.

How much did it cost to start the business?
Bogdan's initial investment was $100,000.

Can you tell us the secret to growing a multimillion-dollar company?
Bogdan's advice is to think ahead of the curve. "We've always had a five-year plan. We look at what potential markets are," she says, noting that The Saxon Group began in the cryogenic industry but then saw opportunity to increase business in the power industry. "Now we're seeing potential in two more industries, so we're putting together business plans for that."

How do you balance your family and business responsibilities?
"I'm really fortunate because I have a great family support system to take care of my kids," Bogdan says. "If it weren't for my great husband and my wonderful sister, I really wouldn't be able to do what I do." She adds that it's good to own your business because it allows for more scheduling flexibility.

So other than having a great support system, do you have some good advice for entrepreneurs?
"Build your company based on character," Bogdan asserts. "And then line up everything you do--short- and long-term--to follow that same character." She encourages business owners to consider how every decision affects the business plan and, more important, the employees who drive the company. "That sounds like a sappy thing to say, but character goes a long way. You have to make your word count."

How do you relax?
Traveling is Bogdan's favorite pastime, and with technology, she can stay in touch with her company no matter where she goes. "I try to go somewhere new every year, anywhere I can go in the world," she says. Recently, she stuck closer to home and took a family trip to the Grand Canyon (pairing it with a business conference in Arizona).

What's your favorite music?
Bogdan loves Lenny Kravitz, Jason Mraz and Jack Johnson. She also likes '80s musicians such as the the Go-Go's and the B-52s.

What books are you reading?
Business titles are Bogdan's first choice when it comes to books, especially those that discuss her industry. "Right now, because our company is growing so fast, I'm reading three books I picked up at a conference," she says.

Is there anything you'd like to say about being an entrepreneur?
"I think being an entrepreneur is about empowering others to be their best."

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