Nicolas Duvernois is an inspiring and highly successful Quebec entrepreneur. As the creator of the world's most prize-winning Canadian vodka (Pur Vodka), together with Romeo’s Gin, Mr. Duvernois never ceases to amaze.

We had the opportunity to ask Mr. Duvernois a few questions with a view to shedding some light on his entrepreneurial vision prior to his talk during the RCCAQ's annual convention on November 8.

Q: What (or who) inspired you to become an entrepreneur?

 A: I became an entrepreneur somewhat by chance... However, once I realized what I could create, I threw myself into it 100%. I love the fact that in business, even the sky has no limit!

Q: In your opinion, what determines entrepreneurial success?

A: Success, the way I see it, is twofold. There's a financial component and a social component. No matter what people say, if you only achieve financial success, you're not really a success.

Q: Regardless of economic sectors, what advice would you give to up-and-coming entrepreneurs?

A: To be curious… at all times! I much rather being a generalist than a specialist. I'd prefer to know 1% about 100 different topics than 100% about only one topic.

Q: In your opinion, what has made your career so unique and so inspirational?

A: Wow, it's hard to talk about your own career! I'd say the fact I never gave up is my greatest source of pride.

Q: What are the biggest challenges you've had to face as an entrepreneur?

A: Being on your own, along with the "impostor syndrome", a lack of financing and huge entry barriers!

Q: If you had to start your career over at a certain point, what would you do differently and why?

A: I wouldn't change a thing. I am where I am today thanks to my successes as well as to my failures, plus some good luck and all the work I've put in over the past few years.

Q: You don't have to be a businessperson to have an entrepreneurial spirit, a characteristic that so many brokers share. In conclusion, do you have any tips for people who would like to use their entrepreneurial spirit to its full potential?

A: Being an entrepreneur is a way of life; it's not just about the numbers. It's all about taking charge of our lives and ensuring that everything we do makes us better people. Whether that means taking care of your health or taking a night class to learn a second language or a specific sales technique, the entrepreneurial values are the same. Passion, travail, patience, willpower, generosity and curiosity are the first steps on the road to success.

Can you relate to Mr. Duvernois's comments? Needless to say, the vast majority of brokers are known for their entrepreneurial spirit. The insurance sector may be a far cry from the liquor distribution industry, but the main principles underlying entrepreneurship still apply:

• Sense of initiative. Whether you're a business owner or an employee, you're sure to encounter challenges every day of your life. But behind them you're bound to find a few hidden (but attractive) opportunities. When you step up and seize those opportunities, you'll bring your business to the next level!

• Passion. Forging close ties with your clients and guiding them at all times will be your twin driving forces. They are what set you apart, so be sure to cultivate them!

• Determination. In business, particularly in the insurance sector, the past is no guarantee of future success. For that reason, risk management is always front and centre. Be sure to see the positive side of change, be solution-oriented and keep on developing your own skills and talents. These characteristics are shared by all brokers.

• Get involved in your company or community, or with the RCCAQ or your regional committee: this is another characteristic that entrepreneurs often share… and brokers are no exception!

Don't miss Nicolas Duvernois's talk on his inspirational career during the RCCAQ's 45^th annual convention at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel in Montreal (Thursday, November 8 at noon).

To register for the convention, please click here.